Singapore foreign minister visits Thailand to discuss bilateral issues

Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan kicked off his official visit to Thailand today, answering the call of his Thai counterpart, Maris Sangiampongsa.

Today’s packed agenda includes a working luncheon with Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and a formal welcome dinner hosted by Maris. According to the Thai Foreign Ministry, the two leaders are set to discuss key bilateral issues, fortifying the strong ties between their nations.

Tomorrow promises to be even busier for Balakrishnan. The schedule includes a bilateral meeting with Maris and courtesy calls on General Surayud Chulanont, President of the Privy Council, and Privy Councillor General Prayut Chan-o-cha. The minister’s itinerary also features a lunch with Chaithawat Tulathon, the leader of the opposition bloc in Parliament.

Highlighting the trip, Balakrishnan will join Maris to co-preside over the opening ceremony of the 14th Coordinating Meeting of the Thailand-Singapore Civil Service Exchange Programme (CSEP). This year’s CSEP Meeting, themed Embarking on a Green Partnership in a Digitalised Era, underscores the importance of green technology and digital innovation.

It aims to promote Thailand’s New Economy policy, which focuses on leveraging green technology and digital tools to drive sustainable social and economic growth, reported Thai PBS World.

In related news, in a carefully choreographed succession plan, Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong is poised to take the helm as the nation’s fourth prime minister. At 51, the US-trained economist inherits the mantle from Lee Hsien Loong, who relinquished his position after a remarkable two-decade tenure.

Wong’s journey from a civil servant to a political luminary gained momentum through his pivotal role in steering Singapore’s successful battle against the Covid-19 pandemic.

In other news, Move Forward Party MP Chulapong Yukate demanded that Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa reveal his vision for Thailand’s foreign policy. The call came during a House Committee on Foreign Affairs meeting, leaving the nation eager for answers.