The Vietnamese ambassador to Singapore told the press that Wong’s trip demonstrates Singapore’s commitment to cooperation with Vietnam. Given the rapidly evolving and profound changes in the global and regional landscape, strengthening relations between the leaders of the two countries holds significant importance.

In addition, Anh said, the visit is a key milestone as 2025 is a particularly special year for Vietnam-Singapore relations. Along with the recent announcement of the upgrade to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, this year marks Singapore’s 60th Independence Day and Vietnam’s 80th National Day.

“It’s noteworthy that Wong’s visit takes place just over a week after General Secretary To Lam’s visit to Singapore, serving as a step toward implementing the understandings and agreements reached by the two countries’ top leaders during the Vietnamese leader’s visit,” stated ambassador.

He emphasized that Vietnam and Singapore, having established diplomatic relations for 52 years, have a deep understanding of each other, from political and economic ties to people-to-people exchanges. However, to promote mutual development, he said, both sides have clear expectations of each other, aiming to bring practical benefits to themselves and the region.

According to the diplomat, Singapore expects to cooperate with Vietnam in various fields, especially food and energy security. With limited land and natural resources, the island-city state seeks to leverage Vietnam’s large market and abundant resources. Key areas of cooperation include offshore wind energy, food supply, Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Parks (VSIP), and data centres. Furthermore, Singapore has extensive experience in the financial sector, which Vietnam is keen to develop.

“I believe Singapore is also willing to cooperate with Vietnam, bringing mutual benefits to bilateral relations. Another area where Vietnam can expect support from Singapore is in education and training, not only for strategic-level leaders but also for experts, civil servants, and students. Singapore is a world-class training hub, and its geographical proximity to Vietnam makes cooperation more convenient. This would not only meet Singapore’s expectations but also fulfill Vietnam’s development needs,” said the ambassador.

An important expectation from both sides is cooperation within the ASEAN framework. Both Vietnam and Singapore are active members that view ASEAN as a common home to maintain peace and stability - an essential foundation for sustainable development. Singapore needs to collaborate with other countries, especially within ASEAN, to drive growth. For Vietnam, Singapore serves as a large market that provides opportunities to expand globally while strengthening its position, reputation, and influence in the region and on the international stage.

To further promote bilateral relations in line with their potential, the first priority, he said, is coordination in principles and policies.

“Both Vietnam and Singapore are active and responsible members of the international community and ASEAN. Many regional and global issues require the joint efforts of both countries, as well as other ASEAN members. The leaders of Vietnam and Singapore frequently meet and engage in discussions at regional and multilateral forums. Ensuring policy alignment and a shared stance on key regional and global matters is crucial,” noted the ambassador.

Moreover, he suggested, the two countries should have close coordination and cooperation in implementing projects under the newly established Comprehensive Strategic Partnership through regular exchanges and collaboration. Both sides should also focus resources on executing cooperative initiatives.

“While there is already a shared understanding of the importance of cooperation, the mobilization and concentration of resources will determine the effectiveness of implementation and deliver tangible benefits,” he concluded.

Singapore PM Lawrence Wong to visit Vietnam next week

VOV.VN - Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and his spouse will pay an official visit to Vietnam from March 25 to 26 at the invitation of Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his spouse, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.