Singapore will continue to deepen strong ties with Japan under new premier: PM Wong
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PM Lawrence Wong said he looked forward to working closely with newly elected Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi (pictured) in a congratulatory letter on Oct 21.
PHOTO: REUTERS
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SINGAPORE - Singapore will continue to work closely with Japan to deepen its cooperation with Asean to foster regional peace and prosperity, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in a letter to new Japanese Premier Sanae Takaichi.
In his letter, PM Wong also congratulated Ms Takaichi on her appointment as Japan’s prime minister
He added that cooperation between Singapore and Japan has grown from strength to strength in the political and economic fields, and spanned sectors ranging from start-ups to defence and security, as well as digitalisation and the green economy.
PM Wong said: “Singapore and Japan share similar strategic outlooks. We are trusted partners committed to upholding the multilateral trading system and supporting the rules-based international order.”
Citing how the two countries work closely in regional and multilateral fora, he added that Japan is one of Asean’s “most substantive partners”.
Singapore also acts as country coordinator for ties between Asean and Japan, a role it has held since 2024 and will hold until 2027, PM Wong said.
“Singapore will continue to work closely with Japan to deepen its cooperation with Asean to foster regional peace and prosperity,” he added.
In 2026, both countries will mark 60 years of diplomatic relations, PM Wong said.
“I look forward to working closely with you to deepen our relations and forge an enduring partnership for the benefit of our peoples. I wish you the very best in your new appointment, and look forward to meeting you soon,” he added.
Ms Takaichi, 64, is Japan’s first woman prime minister, winning both the Lower and Upper House elections on her way to the top job.
She was elected leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party Sept 7 resignation
PM Wong, in a letter to the outgoing Japanese prime minister, said Japan continued to play a crucial role in promoting peace, stability and economic cooperation in the region during Mr Ishiba’s tenure.
“Your leadership in deepening Japan’s partnerships with regional and global stakeholders contributed to the region’s continued growth and stability,” he added.
PM Wong said Mr Ishiba’s visits to several South-east Asian countries in 2025 reflected Japan’s commitment to regional peace and prosperity.
He said: “Under your leadership, we have continued to deepen collaboration in areas such as trade, digital innovation and green transformation.”
PM Wong added that he looked forward to Mr Ishiba’s continued support as Singapore and Japan further strengthen ties and expand cooperation in new and emerging areas, and said he hoped to meet Mr Ishiba again soon.
