Talks focus on AI, free trade upgrade, and regional cooperation as both sides deepen strategic partnership
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung wrapped up a three-day state visit to Singapore from March 1 to 3, where he met with President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. The visit began with a formal welcome ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and included a series of official engagements focused on enhancing bilateral relations.
President Tharman and President Lee reaffirmed the strong state of relations between the two countries, noting growing economic cooperation as well as expanding cultural and people-to-people exchanges. Both sides also highlighted opportunities to deepen collaboration in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, alongside shared challenges including demographic shifts.
Prime Minister Wong and President Lee reviewed progress under the Singapore–Republic of Korea Strategic Partnership, pointing to developments in trade, energy, and the digital and green economies. Both leaders welcomed the agreement to upgrade the Korea-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (KSFTA), with the aim of keeping it relevant amid evolving economic conditions.
They also noted progress in ongoing negotiations for a bilateral Nuclear Cooperation Agreement and expressed hope for its early conclusion. In addition, both sides agreed to explore frameworks to expand cooperation in AI, digital technologies, and cybersecurity.
Agreements Signed Across Key Sectors
During the visit, both leaders witnessed the announcement of a joint statement to launch negotiations on the KSFTA upgrade, along with the exchange of five Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs). These agreements cover cooperation in civil nuclear energy, science and technology, intellectual property, digital technology in public safety, and environmental initiatives.
The agreements reflect efforts by both countries to broaden cooperation beyond traditional trade, with increased focus on technology-driven and sustainability-related sectors.
Connectivity and Symbolic Diplomacy
Discussions also covered regional and international developments, including the importance of maintaining a rules-based international order and supporting free trade. Prime Minister Wong welcomed President Lee’s plans to advance the ASEAN–Republic of Korea Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Both sides also looked ahead to the start of negotiations in April 2026 to upgrade the ASEAN-Korea Free Trade Area. Singapore, as the coordinator for ASEAN–ROK economic relations, is expected to play a role in facilitating these discussions.
The two leaders also discussed the need to strengthen air connectivity to support growing travel demand between the two countries. Alongside official meetings, the visit included symbolic gestures such as the naming of an orchid hybrid, Vanda Lee Jae Myung Kim Hea Kyung, in honour of President Lee and First Lady Kim Hea Kyung.
The visit reflects continued efforts by both countries to deepen bilateral cooperation while expanding engagement in regional and global frameworks.
