Star-Hong Kong Relations | Huang Xun-cai: Both regions have their own advantages and can work more closely together to contribute to regional growth

Singapore’s Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Lawrence Wong, posted on social media after concluding his visit to Hong Kong, describing the trip as brief but meaningful, noting that Hong Kong is full of vitality and resilience. Singapore and Hong Kong each have their advantages, and through closer cooperation, both places can promote each other and contribute to the growth and resilience of the broader region.

Wong mentioned that during his visit, he had good exchanges with public and private sector organizations to discuss regional development and areas where Singapore and Hong Kong can strengthen cooperation. He also thanked Chief Executive John Lee and the Hong Kong SAR government for their warm hospitality and expressed his anticipation for further in-depth discussions to enhance the partnership between the two places.

Last week, when receiving Wong at Government House, John Lee stated that Wong’s visit to Hong Kong holds significant meaning, describing the long-standing friendship and shared ideals between the two locations, including a belief in free trade, multilateralism, and rules-based organizations like the United Nations and the World Trade Organization. He also mentioned the need to build dialogue and cooperation bridges to achieve win-win outcomes and “create a bigger cake” for all parties.

Wong responded at that time, expressing his happiness to come to Hong Kong to learn about opportunities including the five-year plan and the Northern Metropolis, and to explore how Singapore can engage in those opportunities. He acknowledged that there are many commonalities between the two places and noted that while there is healthy competition at times, it is even more important that the connections between the two can benefit both sides, describing that in an increasingly fragmented world with frequent barriers, the ties between the two are more crucial than ever.