Singapore: President Lee Jae Myung and Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong engaged in summit talks on Monday, focusing on expanding cooperation in key areas such as artificial intelligence (AI) and nuclear energy. This meeting marks their second encounter in four months, following Wong's earlier visit to South Korea, and aims to further deepen the strategic partnership established during their first meeting.
According to Yonhap News Agency, President Lee emphasized the significance of this visit in advancing trade and investment, and broadening cooperation in strategic industries, including AI, the green transition, economic security, and the defense sector. He expressed hope to create a new milestone in bilateral relations, especially amid current global uncertainties, highlighting the need for trustworthy partners to tackle challenges together.
Prime Minister Wong echoed Lee's sentiments, noting the importance of their meeting amid shifting global dynamics. He stressed the shared values of both nations, such as support for free trade and a rules-based international order, and expressed optimism about advancing cooperation further.
To facilitate cooperation, the two nations plan to sign five memorandums of understanding (MOUs) covering areas like AI, small modular reactors, and digital and science and technology. Post-discussions, Lee and Wong will announce their agreement to commence negotiations to upgrade the bilateral free trade agreement, which has been in effect since 2006.
In efforts to deepen AI collaboration, President Lee will participate in the AI Connect Summit, a bilateral forum for entrepreneurs and business leaders in AI. South Korea's expertise in semiconductors and AI manufacturing complements Singapore's advanced AI governance and its role as a data hub in Southeast Asia.
Prior to the summit, President Lee was welcomed by Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam at an official ceremony and attended an orchid naming event, honoring his state visit with an orchid hybrid named after him and the first lady.