Having a seat at the Group of 20 (G20) forum is important for Singapore as it allows the country’s voice to be heard when the world’s largest economies discuss global matters, said Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in a Facebook post on Jul 17.
“When I attend these fora, I always keep in mind why I am here, and why I update everyone on what I do – on social media and more. It must always be for Singaporeans,” he said.
Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong recently wrapped up his visit to Bali on Jul 16, where he represented Singapore at the third G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting. It was chaired by Indonesia, which holds the rotating presidency of the G20 this year. The G20 brings together the world’s largest economies like the United States, China and Japan.
Singapore, while not a member of the G20, has been invited to many past editions and established the Global Governance Group, an informal group of smaller and medium-sized countries of the United Nations (UN) that aims to promote greater dialogue between the G20 and the broader UN membership.
Bumpy road ahead
Attending the G20 also helps build stronger ties with other countries and together, the world can work towards solving the most pressing issues of our time, he added.
DPM Wong added that major events such as Covid-19; the Ukraine War and its subsequent impact on the economy and energy and food prices; and rising geopolitical tensions are affecting all countries, further underlining the importance of attending such a summit.
He added that a small, open nation like Singapore feels the impact of major global moves deeply and thus it is important Singapore continues to have a voice on the international stage.
“And it is important that we keep faith with our people, and work to advance Singapore’s interests on an international level.”
A stronger Singapore
While he described the global environment ahead as “bumpy”, DPM Wong assured Singaporeans that we can sail through the storms together.
“The journey ahead in the global environment will be bumpy. There will be more shocks and stormy weather. But I know that by keeping the faith, and having trust in each other, we can sail through together – a stronger Singapore.”
Cover photo credit: DPM Wong Facebook page