Singapore PM Wong Ends China Trip on Economic Ties

Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong wrapped up a four-day trip to China on March 28, 2025, following visits to Hainan province and Hong Kong, where he met political and business leaders to advance regional economic ties and cooperation amid global uncertainties.

Wong arrived in Hainan on March 25 for the 25th Boao Forum for Asia, an annual gathering of about 2,000 representatives from over 60 countries focused on multilateralism, innovation and inclusive development. Singapore, a founding member since 2001, has long supported the forum, which coincides with the province's launch as a full free trade port. During the opening plenary on March 26, Wong delivered a keynote speech urging China to play a larger role in anchoring Asia's prosperity and stability. He highlighted China's economic weight and initiatives like the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and Belt and Road as models for rules-based trade. "China can be a strong advocate for cooperation and rules-based trade," Wong said, adding that Beijing could lead in areas such as artificial intelligence governance.

Wong also met senior Chinese officials, including National People's Congress Chairman Zhao Leji and Hainan...