Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong made a significant visit to Suzhou, Jiangsu Province, China, on 25 November 2024, to take part in several official commemorative events marking the remarkable 30th anniversary of the China-Singapore Suzhou Industrial Park (SIP), a pivotal collaborative venture between the two nations.
At a pivotal meeting and accompanying lunch with Vice Premier He Lifeng, the two leaders emphasized the critical role of the SIP in fostering bilateral cooperation. They acknowledged and celebrated the myriad successes that the SIP has achieved over the past three decades, expressing optimism and outlining strategic discussions on how to guide its development over the next decade. Both leaders reiterated their confidence that the SIP will continue to stand as a pioneering model for future cooperation between China and Singapore.
Senior Minister Lee also contributed to the Roundtable on “High Quality Development in the SIP,” delivering impactful remarks alongside Vice Premier He. In a significant moment, the leaders witnessed the signing of two vital agreements: the Cooperation Initiative between the Government of the Republic of Singapore and the Government of the People’s Republic of China aimed at promoting the high-quality development of the SIP from 2024 to 2033, and a Memorandum of Understanding on Digital Trade Cooperation specifically focused on the Suzhou Industrial Park, signed by the Ministry of Trade and Industry of Singapore and the Ministry of Commerce of China. To further commemorate the SIP’s milestone, Senior Minister Lee presided over a meaningful tree-planting ceremony at the scenic Jinji Lake, symbolizing growth and cooperation with Vice Premier He.
In addition, Senior Minister Lee toured the SP’s 30-year Achievement Exhibition, along with visits to the China-Singapore Life Sciences Park (Biosparc) Exhibition Centre and the China-Singapore Green Digital Hub (CSGDH) Exhibition Centre. Both the Biosparc and CSGDH are central to the next phase of collaborative endeavors, showcasing the strengths of Singapore and China in the biomedical sciences and sustainable green development sectors. These initiatives not only highlight the forward-looking vision but also the commitment to high-quality bilateral cooperation in new and emerging industries.
Senior Minister Lee will travel to Beijing this evening to further engage in discussions and reinforce bilateral ties between Singapore and China.
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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
25 NOVEMBER 2024
How has the Suzhou Industrial Park influenced economic relations between China and Singapore over the past three decades?
**Interview with Dr. Chen Wei, an expert on Sino-Singapore Relations**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. Chen. On November 25, 2024, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong participated in commemorative events marking the 30th anniversary of the China-Singapore Suzhou Industrial Park (SIP). What significance does this anniversary hold for both countries?
**Dr. Chen:** Thank you for having me. The 30th anniversary of the SIP is a momentous occasion that highlights a successful model of bilateral cooperation between China and Singapore. Established in 1994, the SIP not only symbolizes economic collaboration but also cultural exchange and technological innovation. This anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on the successes we’ve seen thus far and to strategize future developments that can benefit both nations.
**Interviewer:** During a meeting with Vice Premier He Lifeng, the two leaders discussed the SIP’s role in fostering bilateral cooperation. What specific outcomes emerged from their discussions?
**Dr. Chen:** The meeting was pivotal. Both leaders recognized the SIP as a cornerstone of their bilateral relations and celebrated its achievements over the last three decades. They expressed optimism about the SIP’s potential moving forward. Importantly, they discussed a Cooperation Initiative aimed at promoting high-quality development in the SIP from 2024 to 2033. This long-term commitment signals a willingness to adapt and evolve in the face of changing global economic conditions.
**Interviewer:** Senior Minister Lee also spoke at the Roundtable on “High Quality Development in the SIP.” What themes were highlighted in his remarks?
**Dr. Chen:** In his remarks, Senior Minister Lee emphasized the importance of sustainability, innovation, and digital transformation. He acknowledged that the success of the SIP has largely stemmed from its ability to integrate cutting-edge technology and best practices into its operations. His focus on high-quality development aligns with both countries’ goals of transforming their economies to be more resilient and forward-looking.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, the visit included the signing of two key agreements. Can you elaborate on what these agreements entail?
**Dr. Chen:** Certainly! The first agreement is focused on a Cooperation Initiative that aims to enhance the SIP’s development over the next decade, indicating a planned and structured approach to expansion and improvement. The second is a Memorandum of Understanding on Digital Trade Cooperation, which is particularly crucial given the digital transformation of economies worldwide. This agreement will likely facilitate seamless trade activities and strengthen digital infrastructure between the two countries, fostering further collaboration.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Chen, for your insights on this significant visit and what it means for the future of Sino-Singapore relations!
**Dr. Chen:** Thank you for having me. It’s an exciting time for both countries, and I look forward to seeing how these developments unfold in the coming years.