From June 22 to 26, 2025, Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong made his first official visit to China since assuming office. His trip to Beijing and Tianjin focused on enhancing bilateral ties and participating in the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting of the New Champions.
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【Politics & Economy】PM Lawrence Wong’s First Official Visit to China: Strengthening Bilateral Ties and Embracing Multilateralism
High-Level Engagement: Continuity in Mutual Trust
At the invitation of Chinese Premier Li Qiang, PM Wong met with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang, and Chairman of the National People’s Congress Zhao Leji. This marks his first meeting with Chairman Zhao as Prime Minister and follows his December 2023 visit to China as Deputy Prime Minister.
Premier Li hosted a welcome ceremony and dinner for PM Wong and the Singapore delegation, a testament to the strong and enduring ties between the two nations. Previously, PM Wong met President Xi at the APEC Summit in 2023 and has had multiple exchanges with Premier Li at regional events.
Celebrating 35 Years of Diplomatic Relations
Celebrating 35 Years of Diplomatic Relations
The visit coincides with the 35th anniversary of Singapore–China diplomatic relations in 2025. PM Wong emphasized the strong foundation of trust, respect, and understanding established by founding leaders Lee Kuan Yew and Deng Xiaoping. He expressed hope that this visit would further solidify relations, especially through deeper engagement with President Xi and Premier Li.
Attending the Summer Davos Forum: Advocating for Multilateralism
In Tianjin, PM Wong participated in the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting of the New Champions, themed “Next-Generation Entrepreneurship.” During a dialogue with WEF Chairman Klaus Schwab, he highlighted Singapore’s consistent support for a rules-based multilateral system and open global cooperation.
People-Centered Diplomacy: Engaging Overseas Singaporeans
PM Wong also attended a reception at the Singapore Embassy in Beijing, meeting with Singaporeans living in China. This reflects his personable and human-centered diplomatic approach, strengthening community bonds abroad.
A Strong Delegation: Multisectoral Cooperation
PM Wong was accompanied by a high-level delegation including:
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Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Foreign Affairs
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Grace Fu, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment (in charge of Trade Relations)
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Chee Hong Tat, Acting Minister for Transport
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Sim Ann, Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Home Affairs
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Dr. Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman, MP and incoming Senior Minister of State for Education and National Development
Officials from the Prime Minister’s Office, MFA, MTI, MOT, and MCI also joined, underscoring both countries’ commitment to deepen cooperation in trade, technology, diplomacy, and transport.
Temporary Leave After Visit: Succession Arrangements in Place
Following his return, PM Wong will go on leave on June 27. Deputy PM Gan Kim Yong (June 22–25) and Minister K. Shanmugam (June 26–27) will serve as Acting Prime Ministers to ensure smooth government operations.
PM Lawrence Wong’s visit to China marks a key milestone in the 35-year Singapore–China partnership. Through strategic dialogues, international engagement, and grassroots outreach, Singapore continues to play a crucial role as a regional hub and global connector.
