2nd Singapore - Thailand Political Consultations

Permanent Secretary Chee Wee Kiong of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Singapore and Permanent Secretary Thani Thongphakdi of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand co-chaired the 2^nd Singapore-Thailand Political Consultations via videoconference on 15 November 2021.

The Permanent Secretaries affirmed the enduring partnership between Singapore and Thailand and pledged to further strengthen cooperation on emerging issues as we look to a post-pandemic future. They expressed appreciation for the mutual assistance rendered to deal with the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, including the mutual contributions of medical supplies.  Both sides also agreed to work towards the re-opening of borders. This will facilitate the resumption of business activities and people-to-people exchanges.  

The Permanent Secretaries had productive discussions on sustainable development and explored synergies between Singapore’s Green Plan 2030 and Thailand’s Bio-Circular-Green Economy Model. They exchanged views on possible cooperation in the areas of digital economy, smart cities development, cross-border power trading, carbon credits pilot project, as well as ways to strengthen the Singapore-Thailand Civil Service Exchange Programme. 

Finally, the Permanent Secretaries had a wide-ranging discussion on regional and international developments, and emphasised the importance of strengthening ASEAN Centrality and unity. Both sides also expressed commitment to deepen economic integration through the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). Singapore stands ready to support Thailand’s Chairmanship of APEC in 2022.  

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

SINGAPORE 

15 NOVEMBER 2021