Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan attended the 13th ASEM Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (FMM13) on 20 November 2017.
In a statement delivered at the first plenary session on “Synergising Peace and Sustainable Development”, Singapore highlighted the importance of cooperation between Asia and Europe in the area of cybersecurity, and encouraged both sides to work closely together to tap on the potential of digital connectivity to accelerate broad-based growth and development in their respective regions. The statement also elaborated on Singapore’s efforts to harness digital connectivity through its Smart Nation initiative. Singapore is ready to work with ASEM partners to exchange experiences and facilitate cooperation in digital connectivity.
On the sidelines of the ASEM FMM13, Minister Balakrishnan met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. They underscored good bilateral and ASEAN-China relations over the past year, and reviewed the outcomes of the 20th ASEAN-China Summit. Minister Balakrishnan also met Swedish Foreign Minister Margot Wallström where they reaffirmed good relations between Singapore and Sweden, and discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral ties.
While in Nay Pyi Taw, Minister Balakrishnan met Myanmar Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Min Aung Hlaing where they reaffirmed the longstanding and close relations between Singapore and Myanmar. Minister Balakrishnan expressed support for Myanmar’s economic development, national reconciliation and peace, and democratic transition. They also discussed the situation in Rakhine State, including the need for the violence to stop, and for humanitarian assistance to reach all affected communities. Minister Balakrishnan emphasised the need to address the situation urgently and sensitively, as this is important for all the affected communities and ASEAN.
Minister Balakrishnan will depart Myanmar for Singapore on 21 November 2017.
. . . . .
MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
20 NOVEMBER 2017
