The key facts
- Sheikh Mohamed and Lawrence Wong discussed expanding partnership in the economy, investment, technology and AI
- Agreements were reached on a joint energy task force, and on higher education and healthcare cooperation
- Diplomatic relations were established in 1985; more than 600 Singaporean companies operate in the UAE
Talks in Abu Dhabi
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed held talks in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday with Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, aimed at advancing the long-standing ties between the two countries. The leaders discussed ways to expand partnership in key sectors: the economy, investment, advanced technology and artificial intelligence.
Agreements reached
On the second day of Wong's working visit to the Emirates, a number of deals were concluded, including plans to establish a joint task force in the energy sector, as well as agreements on cooperation in higher education and healthcare.
Welcome ceremony and delegation composition
Earlier, Sheikh Mohamed held an official welcome ceremony for the Singaporean premier: Wong was given an honour guard, and the national anthems of both countries were played. The ceremonial welcome was attended by Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, Sheikh Ziyab bin Mohamed, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed, Sheikh Mohamed bin Hamad, as well as a number of ministers and officials. Wong thanked his hosts for the warm reception and noted the continued growth of relations between the two countries.
The visit began the day before
Wong arrived in the Emirates on Tuesday and first held talks with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled. The sides discussed long-standing bilateral ties, after which they toured the Zayed National Museum in the Saadiyat cultural district.
Context of relations
The UAE and Singapore established diplomatic relations in 1985. In February 2019, the governments signed the Singapore–UAE Comprehensive Partnership, a framework agreement on cooperation in trade, investment, defence, security and sustainable development. More than 600 Singaporean companies operate in the Emirates in the fields of fintech, healthcare, infrastructure and education. In October 2024, Sheikh Khaled made an official visit to Singapore, where he held talks with Wong and witnessed the signing of agreements on artificial intelligence, education and renewable energy.
