In March 2025, Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong embarked on a significant two-day official visit to Hanoi, Vietnam, at the invitation of Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh. This visit, from 25th to 26th March, was a pivotal step in enhancing the bilateral relations between the two Southeast Asian nations.
The visit occurred shortly after both countries elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) during the official visit of Vietnamese Communist Party General Secretary To Lam to Singapore earlier in March. This upgrade underscores a mutual commitment to deepening cooperation across various sectors, including defence, security, digital economy, and sustainable infrastructure. During this visit, a Letter of Intent (LOI) was signed to implement the CSP.
Upon arrival, Prime Minister Wong was accorded a formal welcome at the Presidential Palace by Prime Minister Chinh. The leaders engaged in comprehensive discussions aimed at exploring avenues to bolster bilateral cooperation. They witnessed the exchange of several agreements focusing on areas such as the digital economy, cross-border electricity trade, and sustainable infrastructure development. Along with the LOI on implementing the CSP, another LOI was signed for improving cooperation in cross-border electricity trade for the ASEAN Power Grid. Three Memoranda of Understanding have been signed on the following areas:
- Digital Development and Innovation
- Cross-border QR Payments, and
- People-to-people Ties
In addition to meeting Prime Minister Chinh, Prime Minister Wong held talks with other key Vietnamese leaders, including President Luong Cuong and General Secretary To Lam. These interactions provided a platform to discuss regional and global issues of mutual interest, further solidifying the strategic partnership between the two nations.
Prime Minister Wong was accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Manpower and Second Minister for Trade and Industry Tan See Leng, Minister of State for Health and Digital Development and Information Rahayu Mahzam, and other senior officials. This diverse representation highlighted Singapore’s multifaceted approach to international relations and its commitment to engaging comprehensively with Vietnam.
The economic ties between Singapore and Vietnam have been robust, with Singapore being one of Vietnam’s largest trading partners and investors. In 2024, bilateral trade reached approximately $31.6 billion, reflecting a steady growth trajectory. Singapore’s investments span various sectors, including manufacturing, real estate, and energy distribution, contributing significantly to Vietnam’s economic development.
Beyond economic and political engagements, both countries have placed a strong emphasis on cultural and educational exchanges. Initiatives such as the Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Parks (VSIPs) have not only created employment opportunities but have also fostered a deeper understanding and appreciation of each other’s cultures. These parks serve as a testament to the successful collaboration between the two nations, providing a model for industrial development and cultural integration.
The outcomes of Prime Minister Wong’s visit are poised to usher in a new era of collaboration between Singapore and Vietnam. The establishment of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership sets a clear trajectory for future engagements, with both nations expressing a shared commitment to regional stability, economic prosperity, and cultural enrichment. As they continue to build on their historical ties, Singapore and Vietnam are well-positioned to serve as pillars of cooperation and progress in the ASEAN region.
