Argentina and Singapore hold the 2nd Round of Political Consultations at new stage of bilateral relations

Today, in Buenos Aires, the Argentine Republic and the Republic of Singapore held the second Round of Political Consultations, where the Foreign Ministries from both countries analyzed the bilateral agenda and established the basis for its development and expansion, in a year which is expected to mark a new stage in their relations.

The Argentine diplomatic delegation was headed by the Deputy Foreign Minister, Pedro Villagra Delgado, while the Singaporean delegation was headed by the Second Permanent Secretary, Albert Chua.

At the meeting, both delegations highlighted the excellent level of bilateral relations, the will to continue strengthening and expanding areas of mutual interest, and their cultural exchanges, bilateral trade, investments and coordination at multilateral forums. As regards the possibilities of cementing bonds in the field of technical cooperation, Singapore suggested that a memorandum of understanding be concluded and provided a first draft to be negotiated by the parties with a view to signing it soon.

Moreover, Argentina availed itself of this opportunity to reaffirm its interest in increasing its presence in Southeast Asia. In this regard, both delegations commended the reopening of the Argentine Embassy in Singapore, ordered by President Macri on 17 February, through executive order 116/2017, as well as Argentina´s intention to adhere to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia (ASEAN). Furthermore, both delegations welcomed the visit of the Singaporean Foreign Minister, Vivian Balakrishnan, which is to take place in early April and will constitute her first visit to Latin America.

Argentina provided the Singaporean delegation with and outlines of its position in the Question of the Malvinas Islands, which Singapore understood.

Furthermore, both delegations welcomed the recent appointment of a Singaporean Honorary Consul General to Argentina.

Finally, the delegations exchanged their views on items on the international agenda, as well as their prospects for the Argentine presidency of the G20 and the organization of the upcoming WTO Ministerial Conference to be held in Buenos Aires between 11 and 14 December.

During his visit to Argentina, Deputy Foreign Minister Albert Chua held a meeting with Foreign Minister Susana Malcorra and her Chief of Staff, Marcos Stancanelli, as well as with the Secretary for International Economic Relations, Ambassador Horacio Reyser Travers, with a view to strengthening trade and investment relations.

Press Release: Nº072/17

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