Leaders discuss trade, energy, defence, technology and regional security during bilateral talks.
Singapore Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong and Qatar’s Emir, His Highness Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, agreed to work towards elevating bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership during the ninth Qatar–Singapore High-Level Joint Committee (HLJC) meeting in Doha on 19 October 2026. The meeting took place during Prime Minister Wong’s official visit to Qatar from 18 to 20 October, with both leaders discussing cooperation in trade, investment, energy, defence, technology and regional security.
The meeting was co-chaired by Prime Minister Wong and Emir Sheikh Tamim at the Amiri Diwan in Doha, attended by ministers and senior officials from both countries. It was the first time in the HLJC’s 20-year history that the leaders of Singapore and Qatar had co-chaired the committee. The leaders also reaffirmed the importance of the HLJC as the main platform for providing strategic direction to bilateral cooperation. Qatar will become Singapore’s second Strategic Partner in the Middle East.
Both sides welcomed progress in economic and sectoral engagement, including cooperation in artificial intelligence (AI), digitalisation, cybersecurity, research and development, education and sustainable development. They encouraged partnerships among government agencies, research institutions, academia and the private sector to support innovation, develop digital and AI talent, and promote the responsible use of emerging technologies.
Energy cooperation was another key outcome, with Prime Minister Wong and Emir Sheikh Tamim witnessing the exchange of the renewed Memorandum of Understanding between QatarEnergy and Singapore’s Ministry of Energy, Trade and Industry on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and low-carbon technology. The agreement aims to support stable LNG supply chains and energy security. The leaders also welcomed defence cooperation, including a February 2026 agreement between Barzan Holdings and ST Engineering valued at QR1.5 billion (S$470 million).
On regional affairs, the leaders expressed serious concern over the situation in the Middle East and highlighted the importance of dialogue, diplomacy and maritime security. They also welcomed closer ties between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), including efforts towards an ASEAN–GCC Free Trade Agreement during Singapore’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2027.
Both leaders looked forward to Emir Sheikh Tamim’s state visit to Singapore, which is expected to provide an opportunity to launch the Qatar–Singapore Strategic Partnership. The 10th HLJC meeting will be held in Singapore at a mutually convenient time.
Source: MFA Singapore
