ASEAN will remain cornerstone of Singapore’s foreign policy: PM Lawrence Wong

Summary

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, in his first address at the ASEAN summit, reaffirmed Singapore's commitment to ASEAN as a vital part of its foreign policy. He emphasized the importance of regional development through digital and green economies, highlighting the potential of the ASEAN Digital Market and the need for a regulatory framework for a cross-border power grid by 2045. Wong called for proactive engagement with external partners like the World Bank to support sustainable initiatives, ensuring that ASEAN remains relevant and beneficial in a complex geopolitical landscape.

Takeaways

• 🌏 Prime Minister Lawrence Wong emphasizes ASEAN's importance as a cornerstone of Singapore's foreign policy.
• 🤝 Wong expresses gratitude for the warm hospitality received at his first ASEAN summit as Prime Minister.
• 📈 He highlights the critical role of ASEAN in promoting peace, stability, and economic growth in the region.
• 💻 Wong calls for harnessing the potential of the digital economy to drive ASEAN's economic integration.
• 🌿 He stresses the need for ASEAN to advance in the green economy to meet sustainable goals.
• 🗓️ Wong envisions a framework agreement for the ASEAN Digital market by 2025 to capitalize on digital opportunities.
• ⚡ He outlines the goal of establishing an ASEAN power grid by 2045 to enhance regional energy infrastructure.
• 💼 Wong notes the importance of attracting external partners, like the World Bank, for financing ASEAN projects.
• 🌍 He highlights that ASEAN should engage with external parties in a mutually beneficial manner.
• 📅 Upcoming ASEAN summits are expected to further strengthen the bloc's engagement in regional and global matters.

Q & A

What was the primary focus of Prime Minister Lawrence Wong's speech at the ASEAN summit?

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong emphasized the importance of ASEAN as a cornerstone of Singapore's foreign policy and highlighted the need for economic integration and collaboration in the digital and green economies.

What commitments did Prime Minister Wong make regarding Singapore's role in ASEAN?

Wong committed to ensuring that Singapore remains actively engaged in ASEAN and supports the bloc's relevance and growth, especially in new areas like the digital market.

What potential does Wong see in the ASEAN Digital Market?

Wong sees significant potential in the ASEAN Digital Market and aims to establish a framework agreement by 2025 to harness this potential effectively.

How did Wong address the geopolitical challenges facing ASEAN?

Wong noted the uncertain geopolitical environment and stressed the need for ASEAN to move quickly in new areas to remain relevant and effective.

What is the importance of the green economy according to Wong?

Wong highlighted the need for ASEAN to focus on the green economy, emphasizing the establishment of a regulatory framework for cross-border trade and infrastructure development to achieve sustainable goals.

What specific project did Wong mention related to ASEAN's energy future?

Wong mentioned the ASEAN power grid project, which aims to enhance power infrastructure across different countries by 2045, facilitating energy trade within the region.

What role did Wong suggest external partners, like the World Bank, could play in ASEAN's initiatives?

Wong indicated that external partners could provide financing and support for ASEAN projects, highlighting the importance of mutually beneficial engagements.

What did Wong say about the nature of engagements with external partners?

Wong emphasized that interactions with external partners must be meaningful and mutually beneficial, ensuring that these partners see value in engaging with ASEAN.

What are the next steps for ASEAN as discussed by Wong?

Wong indicated that the next agenda items include enhancing ASEAN's engagement with external parties and continuing discussions on collaborative initiatives.

How does Wong describe the relationship between ASEAN and its external partners?

Wong described the relationship as one that should be based on shared interests and values, fostering partnerships that are advantageous for both ASEAN and its external partners.