Singapore to launch CSP with New Zealand

The city-state also plans to enhance its ties with South Korea, amongst others.

Singapore has announced the establishment of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnerships (CSP) with New Zealand.

According to the addendum to President Tharman Shanmugaratnam's opening address to the 15th Parliament, this move is part of Singapore’s strategy in strengthening its ties with major powers and expanding its circles of friends.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) will strengthen ties with both the US and China, and also establish ties with middle powers in emerging regions of growth such as Africa, Central Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.

Singapore will build on CSPs and Strategic Partnerships (SP) it has with various economies, such as France, Germany, the UK, and Vietnam.

Aside from New Zealand, Singapore will also launch an SP with South Korea and open new diplomatic missions in Africa and Latin America in the coming years.

“Through our new Development Partnerships Directorate, MFA will strengthen the Singapore Cooperation Programme to share our experience with others and coordinate Singapore’s development partnerships in areas where we have relevant strengths,” the government said.

Singapore said it is exploring partnerships between the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, the European Union, and ASEAN to preserve open flows of trade and investment and build economic resilience. It is also expanding collaboration in Digital Economy and Green Economy to create opportunities for Singaporeans in forward-looking areas.