China’s Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang is set to make an official visit to Singapore on November 10-11, during which he will co-chair the 20th Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) meeting alongside Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry, Gan Kim Yong. The JCBC, a pivotal platform in China-Singapore relations, will enable both nations to review current collaborations, explore new initiatives, and set the agenda for future partnerships across several areas of mutual interest. Mr. Ding’s visit comes as Singapore and China celebrate a legacy of cooperation spanning multiple decades, with partnerships in key sectors such as industrial development, sustainability, connectivity, and technological innovation.
The JCBC, which has served as the cornerstone for diplomatic and economic engagements between Singapore and China, is a comprehensive annual summit that evaluates and builds on the existing collaborations. At this 20th meeting, high on the agenda will be discussions on sustainability, regional economic integration, and the progress of major collaborative projects. This year’s discussions will also explore future growth areas in response to evolving regional challenges, digital transformation needs, and post-pandemic economic landscapes.
As co-chairs, Vice Premier Ding and DPM Gan will lead talks on various projects aimed at enhancing cooperation in emerging sectors. In addition to setting forth a roadmap for economic and diplomatic ties, both countries aim to address global concerns such as supply chain resilience, food security, and climate change, reflecting their shared commitment to long-term sustainable development.
The three initiatives, rooted in distinct areas of urban, industrial, and infrastructural development, underscore China and Singapore’s joint commitment to advancing urbanization, eco-friendly infrastructure, and regional connectivity. The steering committees will examine the latest project achievements and explore ways to address challenges while envisioning new growth avenues in each partnership.
- Suzhou Industrial Park (SIP)
The Suzhou Industrial Park, established in 1994, stands as a hallmark of the China-Singapore partnership. The SIP serves as a pioneering model of economic cooperation and sustainable development, illustrating Singapore’s industrial expertise applied within China. Over nearly three decades, it has transformed from a model industrial zone into a robust economic hub in the Yangtze River Delta, housing numerous multinational corporations and creating a dynamic environment for technological innovation. In honor of the SIP’s 30th anniversary, Mr. Ding and Mr. Gan are scheduled to participate in a ceremonial tree-planting event at Singapore’s Botanic Gardens, symbolizing the deep-rooted and growing relationship between the two nations. - Tianjin Eco-City
The Tianjin Eco-City project, launched in 2008, is a flagship example of sustainable urban planning and green infrastructure in China. This collaborative venture has showcased advancements in waste management, water conservation, and renewable energy, making it a model for eco-friendly urbanization across China and beyond. As China accelerates its climate goals, the Tianjin Eco-City represents a prototype for future city planning, merging economic growth with environmental stewardship. - Chongqing Connectivity Initiative (CCI)
The Chongqing Connectivity Initiative (CCI), a third major joint project, emphasizes high-tech connectivity, innovation, and logistics. As part of the “Belt and Road Initiative,” the CCI focuses on enhancing financial connectivity and strengthening transportation networks. Situated in China’s less-developed western region, this project is instrumental in advancing cross-border trade links and fostering regional development. - Bilateral Cooperation Across Key Sectors
The JCBC meeting will also facilitate discussions on cross-sectoral collaboration agreements, with potential new agreements expected in healthcare, digitalization, food security, education, and green technology. Last year’s meeting, held in Tianjin, saw the signing of 24 cooperative agreements spanning a broad range of areas, underscoring the depth and breadth of the China-Singapore partnership. - Digital and Technological Innovation
Both countries are exploring avenues in AI, digital infrastructure, and smart-city technologies. Singapore, as a leader in digital policy and innovation, will discuss collaborative strategies that align with China’s ambitions to drive forward its own tech economy. This digital cooperation not only supports mutual tech ambitions but also has the potential to foster inclusive digital growth across Southeast Asia. - Healthcare and Aging Population Solutions
With aging populations in both nations, healthcare and eldercare services are vital areas for cooperation. The JCBC will likely discuss collaboration in telemedicine, health technologies, and infrastructure that can cater to aging citizens, drawing on Singapore’s strengths in healthcare innovation and China’s extensive healthcare networks. - Education and Talent Exchange
Education partnerships and talent exchanges between the countries will play a critical role in sustaining the bilateral relationship. Both nations are expected to sign memoranda of understanding to further facilitate talent exchanges, scholarships, and training programs in areas like AI, finance, and technology. - Sustainability and Food Security
Food security has become a pressing issue amid global climate change and supply chain disruptions. Singapore, heavily reliant on imports, aims to bolster its food security through innovative solutions, while China looks to diversify its supply chains. The JCBC will review strategies to address food security, potentially expanding on initiatives in agricultural technology and sustainable farming. - Trade and Supply Chain Resilience
As supply chain issues continue to impact global markets, the JCBC meeting will explore ways to strengthen trade routes and reduce dependencies on single-source suppliers. Singapore’s role as a major shipping hub and China’s vast manufacturing capabilities make this a mutually beneficial focus.
Mr. Ding’s visit will include high-level engagements with top Singaporean leaders. In addition to his meetings with Deputy Prime Minister Gan, Mr. Ding will meet with President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. This meeting marks Mr. Ding’s first official visit to Singapore as China’s vice premier and will provide an opportunity for the two nations to reaffirm their shared commitment to peace and prosperity in Asia.
Additionally, Mr. Ding will attend a dinner hosted by Singapore’s Senior Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security, Teo Chee Hean. Given the prominence of both countries on the world stage, the discussions will address mutual security interests, regional stability, and cooperative strategies in dealing with global challenges, including the impact of the ongoing U.S.-China competition on Southeast Asia.
