Singapore and Luxembourg are poised to enhance their collaboration in cutting-edge fields such as quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and satellite communications, as both nations seek to deepen their enduring partnership. Singapore’s Prime Minister, Lawrence Wong, emphasized that the two countries face similar challenges as small states with limited domestic markets and scarce natural resources. He noted that both have leveraged their openness and international networks to become significant financial and business centers serving larger regional markets.
Highlighting the robust economic ties between the nations, Wong pointed out that Luxembourg stands as the largest European Union investor in Singapore, while Singapore is the second-largest investment destination for Luxembourg within the EU. Both countries are also committed to fortifying connections between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the European Union. According to Wong, Singapore and Luxembourg support regional integration and are united in their commitment to maintaining an open, rules-based international system.
Luxembourg’s Prime Minister, Luc Frieden, is currently on an official visit to Singapore, from September 6 to 8. During his visit, he met with Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam. Their discussions encompassed geopolitical developments and strategies to promote stability, predictability, and adherence to the rule of law between their countries.
This visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Singapore and Luxembourg. The inauguration of Luxembourg’s first resident embassy in Singapore is seen as a significant gesture of its dedication to enhancing engagement with Singapore and the broader region. In a move to further this dialogue, Frieden is scheduled to present the 48th Singapore Lecture on September 8, where he will discuss Europe’s role and autonomy in an evolving global landscape.