On 31 August 2020, Singapore Minister for Transport Ong Ye Kung and Guangdong Governor Ma Xingrui co-chaired the 11th SGCC meeting, held over video-conference in Singapore and Guangzhou. Both sides reaffirmed the strength and resilience of economic ties and wide-ranging cooperation between Singapore and Guangdong.

The two co-chairs also looked forward to enhancing multi-faceted cooperation between Singapore and Guangdong amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, and made the Joint Statement as follows:

2020 is a year of significance, as it marks the 30th Anniversary of diplomatic ties between Singapore and China. It also marks the next decade of Singapore-Guangdong cooperation under the auspices of the SGCC. Over the years, Singapore and Guangdong have fully leveraged the SGCC to explore new cooperation models; support project developments; and bring about multifaceted and meaningful exchanges and collaboration, which have benefited our people.

Singapore and China have worked resolutely in containing our domestic COVID-19 situation. As the global economy faces challenges arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, both sides shall strengthen our cooperation and work together steadfastly to overcome the pandemic. Both sides shall forge ahead with business resumption; strengthen transport connectivity; facilitate travel under the Singapore-China Fast Lane to promote greater exchange of people.

Singapore and Guangdong will emerge from this crisis stronger, and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area will remain a key market for Singapore companies. Both sides shall continue to explore opportunities and new areas of growth post-COVID-19, and continue to deepen Singapore-Guangdong collaboration for mutual growth and prosperity.

Both sides shall also implement the important consensus between our leaders. Singapore and Guangdong will strengthen international cooperation by keeping our economies open, enhancing our business environment, and upholding supply chain connectivity. This is to provide the necessary conditions for enhanced trade and investment between Singapore and Guangdong, inject vibrancy into our All-Round Cooperative Partnership Progressing with the Times, and work towards a better future for both sides.

Source: GDFAO