17-10-2023 (SINGAPORE) Singapore’s Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong, embarks on official visits to two Gulf states, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, commencing from Tuesday, October 17th, and extending through Sunday. These diplomatic endeavors aim to strengthen ties and foster cooperation with these influential nations in the Gulf region.
During his stay in Riyadh, Prime Minister Lee will partake in the ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit scheduled for Friday. At this summit, leaders from the Southeast Asian nations and the Gulf states will engage in discussions about enhancing relations and advancing collaboration in critical areas, including the green and digital economies. This initiative reflects the shared commitment to adapt and flourish in an evolving global landscape, as stated by Singapore’s Prime Minister’s Office.
In addition to the summit, Mr. Lee will convene with various Saudi leaders and receive a comprehensive briefing on the Vision 2030 plan, which outlines Saudi Arabia’s strategic economic diversification away from its historical reliance on oil. This visionary economic shift aims to establish a more diverse and sustainable economic landscape.
Singapore’s Prime Minister will also seize the opportunity to connect with the Singaporean community residing and working in Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, he will explore the rich historical and cultural heritage of the cities of Madinah and Al Ula, which bear testament to Saudi Arabia’s profound historical significance.
Subsequently, Mr. Lee will head to the United Arab Emirates from Saturday to Sunday, where he is scheduled to meet with Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and the President’s eldest son. This meeting signifies Singapore’s commitment to deepening relations with the UAE and underscores the importance of fostering a robust partnership.
Prime Minister Lee will also visit the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company to gain insights into the UAE’s strategic energy transition plans, reflecting the shared commitment to sustainable energy and environmental considerations.
Additionally, Mr. Lee’s itinerary includes a visit to Dubai city, where he will engage with Emirati leaders and Singaporean expatriates based in the city. This aspect of the visit underscores the depth of the bilateral relationship between the two nations and seeks to enhance cultural and economic exchanges.
During his visit to Saudi Arabia, Prime Minister Lee will be accompanied by a delegation comprising Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, Education Minister Chan Chun Sing, Social and Family Development Minister Masagos Zulkifli, and Manpower Minister Tan See Leng.
In the UAE, the delegation will include Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, Maliki Osman, Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment, and Transport, Amy Khor, as well as Senior Minister of State for Communications and Information and Health, Janil Puthucheary.
During this diplomatic mission, Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong will assume the role of Acting Prime Minister in Prime Minister Lee’s absence.
