Prime Minister Lawrence Wong is all set for an exciting five-day trip, kicking off from 21 November 2024. He’ll be headed to Johannesburg, South Africa, for the G20 Summit, and then onto Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This marks Wong’s first official visits to these vibrant African nations since taking office as Prime Minister.
G20 Summit: A Platform for Growth
The G20 Summit, taking place from 21 to 23 November, is held under the theme of “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”. South Africa, which holds the presidency this year, aims to tackle pressing global issues like climate change and geopolitical instability.
- Wong will engage in discussions focusing on the growth and fostering a fair future.
- AI’s rapid development and its effects on work will also be key talking points.
- Despite not being a member, Singapore has been a recurrent guest participant at the G20 since 2010.
A Warm Welcome in Ethiopia
Following the summit, PM Wong will visit Ethiopia from 23 to 25 November. He’s invited by Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed Ali, and the visit is expected to strengthen ties between the two nations.
- There will be a delegation meeting, where they plan to sign memoranda of understanding (MOUs).
- Wong will receive a ceremonial welcome at the National Palace.
- A wreath-laying ceremony at the Adwa Victory Memorial Monument is also on the agenda.
Building Bridges
This trip aims to broaden Singapore’s diplomatic reach into Africa—an effort Wong discussed earlier this month, highlighting Singapore’s need to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world.
Wong won’t be going alone. He’ll be travelling with his wife Loo Tze Lui, Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, and other key officials. Notably, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Trade and Industry Gan Siow Huang and Minister of State for Digital Development and Information and Health Rahayu Mahzam will also be part of the delegation.
During Mr Wong’s absence, Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong will serve as Acting Prime Minister until 24 November, followed by K Shanmugam covering on 25 November.
As Mr Wong embarks on this remarkable journey, he carries with him the hopes of fostering deeper ties and cooperation between Singapore and Africa—think of it as Singapore’s little step with big aspirations!