I am always excited whenever I see the leaders preparing the young leaders for tomorrow.

to harness the opportunities presented by these technologies, stay ahead of the curve and create opportunities for our people and businesses.

I spoke about the opportunities presented by the technological revolution - from AI to clean energy - that will define the next bound of growth as well as the need to stay open. Singapore’s interest is clear, to work with all our partners, including China,

principled engagement and a shared focus on adapting to new opportunities and challenges.
As China transformed, Singapore adapted to look for ways to be useful and relevant for the future of China.
At the 16th FutureChina Global Forum this morning,

We look forward to deepening our cooperation and bring tangible benefits to our peoples, including through projects like the JS-SEZ and RTS Link. 🇸🇬🤝🇲🇾

Our fates are closely intertwined. Over the years, successive governments on both sides have worked hard to build a win-win partnership based on our complementary strengths and grounded in mutual respect and shared interests.

Happy to have also met several key members of the Chinese business community who have long been a pillar of Singapore’s success.

At SMEICC 2025, I shared some reflections on the way forward:

✅ Stay open and plugged into ASEAN and global markets
✅ Embrace new technologies like AI
✅ Keep investing in our workers’ skills and adaptability

The world is evolving — with sharper geopolitical rivalry, rapid technological disruption, and fractured politics in many countries.

I congratulate the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry for your valuable contributions and the networks you provide to our SMEs in the region.

Through work in digital trade, sustainability and cross-border cooperation, USABC is opening new opportunities for the US and ASEAN. Singapore remains committed to supporting US companies in our region and to keeping trade open and inclusive.

These exchanges help us grow a more resilient economy, so that we can prosper and succeed for many years ahead. We take nothing for granted and we are constantly looking for new avenues of cooperation in technology and advanced manufacturing with our partners.

Michigan’s world-class universities, including the University of Michigan, Michigan State and Michigan Tech, provide strong foundations for collaboration in research, innovation and education.

the winds and sands from Lake Michigan eroded the town, burying it under dunes by 1875.
I shared this story with Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, who's visiting Singapore. Our partnership with Michigan is anchored in growing economic exchanges and people-to-people links such as student exchanges

We need to have the remain open and globally competitive to maximise opportunities for all Singaporeans.

We also need to develop services and programmes at the neighbourhood level for our seniors.

Much work ahead. Thank you for sharing your ideas and concerns.

This will have a profound impact on jobs and the structure of our economy.
We have to focus on generating good jobs for Singaporeans by updating our skills and developing relevant technology and infrastructure.

Singapore remains committed to working closely with our African friends to unlock opportunities and shape a more prosperous and sustainable future together. I thank my African colleagues for visiting Singapore and hope they had a fruitful time here.