Singapore’s 61st National Day carries special meaning for Venezuela this year, as the celebration coincides with the 20th anniversary of Venezuela’s diplomatic presence in the city-state. In this special feature by IN Diplomacy, H.E. Jessica María López Piña, Ambassador of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to Singapore, reflects on two decades of friendship between the two countries, from building bridges across continents to standing together in times of adversity.

Congratulatory message from H.E. Jessica María López Piña, Ambassador of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to
the Republic of Singapore, on the occasion of Singapore’s 61st National Day

“On behalf of the Government and the People of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, it is my distinct honour to
extend our warmest congratulations to the Government and the People of the Republic of Singapore on the
occasion of its 61st National Day.

This remarkable date offers an opportunity to pay tribute to the extraordinary journey of a Nation that, through
strategic vision, discipline, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of its people, has
become a global symbol of resilience, progress, and prosperity.

For Venezuela, joining Singapore in this celebration holds even deeper significance, as 2026 also marks the 20th
anniversary of the establishment of the Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela in Singapore. The
opening of our Diplomatic Mission in 2006, reflected the determination of Venezuela to strengthen its presence
in Southeast Asia, particularly considering the strategic importance of one of the most dynamic and influential
nations in the region.

Over the past two decades, Venezuela and Singapore have demonstrated that geographical distance is no
barrier to building a relationship founded upon mutual respect and constructive dialogue. Both countries firmly
believe that international cooperation, understanding among nations, and diplomacy remain indispensable tools
for addressing the challenges of an increasingly interconnected world.

This friendship acquired an even more profound human dimension following the devastating earthquakes which
struck Venezuela on 24 June 2026. During one of the most difficult moments in our nation’s recent history, the
Venezuelan people received with deep gratitude the heartfelt expressions of solidarity extended by the
Government of Singapore, its institutions, and the Singaporean people.

I wish to express our sincere appreciation for the contribution announced by the Government of Singapore in
support of humanitarian relief efforts, as well as for the fundraising appeal established by the Singapore Red
Cross to assist the recovery of the Venezuelan communities affected by the disaster. These gestures transcend
material assistance; they stand as powerful expressions of sympathy and humanity.

Today, diplomacy extends far beyond official exchanges between governments. It is reflected in our ability to
build bridges between cultures, promote mutual understanding, and stand together in moments of celebration
and adversity.

As we commemorate both the 61st Singapore National Day and the 20th anniversary of Venezuela’s diplomatic
presence in this remarkable country, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to further strengthening bilateral
dialogue, expanding areas of cooperation, and creating new opportunities which contribute to the prosperity and
well-being of our two nations and peoples.

May this National Day inspire Singapore to continue its outstanding journey of progress, resilience, and global
leadership, while Venezuela proudly renews its commitment to deepening our enduring friendship and
partnership for many years to come.”

Source: H.E. Jessica María López Piña, Ambassador of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela to the Republic of Singapore