Singapore: President Lee Jae Myung and Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong engaged in summit talks on Monday, focusing on expanding cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI) and nuclear energy. This meeting marks their second encounter in just four months, following Wong's visit to South Korea.
According to Yonhap News Agency, President Lee highlighted the significance of this meeting, which builds upon the strategic partnership established during their initial discussions. "I hope this visit will further advance trade and investment, and deepen and broaden cooperation in future strategic industries, including AI, the green transition, economic security, and the defense industry," Lee stated. He emphasized the importance of strengthening ties amid global uncertainties, underscoring the need for reliable partnerships.
Prime Minister Wong echoed Lee's sentiments, noting the importance of their meeting against the backdrop of shifting global dynamics. Wong expressed optimism that the two nations, united by shared values like support for free trade and a rules-based international order, will continue to enhance their cooperation.
In support of this collaboration, the two countries plan to sign five memorandums of understanding (MOUs) covering AI, small modular reactors, and digital and science and technology sectors. Additionally, Lee and Wong will announce the commencement of negotiations to upgrade the bilateral free trade agreement, initially established in 2006.
Further emphasizing the focus on AI, President Lee will participate in the AI Connect Summit, a bilateral forum for entrepreneurs and business leaders in the sector. South Korea's strengths in semiconductors and AI manufacturing complement Singapore's advanced AI governance and its role as a regional hub for AI data.
Before the summit, President Lee was welcomed by Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and attended a ceremony for an orchid hybrid named "Vanda Lee Jae Myung Kim Hea Kyung" in honor of his state visit.