Countries Sign MOUs in Civil Service Training, AI, and Social Development
SINGAPORE – On October 29, 2024, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) signed eight memorandums of understanding (MOUs), marking a significant step in enhancing bilateral relations between the two nations. The agreements span various sectors, including civil service training, social development, and artificial intelligence (AI).
The signing occurred during the official visit of Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, to Singapore. The two-day visit began with a ceremonial welcome at Parliament House, where Prime Minister Lawrence Wong greeted Sheikh Khaled. Following this, the two leaders engaged in a wide-ranging discussion, touching on topics such as geopolitics, clean energy, tourism, and museum programming.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation
During their talks, PM Wong and Sheikh Khaled emphasized the shared values and interests between Singapore and the UAE, reinforcing their commitment to a rules-based international order. The discussions also highlighted the potential for greater cooperation, particularly through the Abu Dhabi-Singapore Joint Forum. Key areas of collaboration include public administration, climate mitigation, and clean energy.
The eight MOUs signed include agreements involving Singapore’s Ministry of Social and Family Development, Public Service Division, Civil Service College, National Institute of Education, and Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, with UAE counterparts. These agreements focus on the exchange of knowledge and expertise in governance and social development.
Additionally, agreements were made to boost collaboration in areas such as civilian nuclear cooperation, AI talent development, and the strengthening of arbitration and dispute resolution mechanisms. A separate MOU was signed between Seviora Holdings, a Temasek-owned asset manager, and Mubadala Capital, the asset management arm of Abu Dhabi’s sovereign wealth fund, to explore global investment opportunities.
Visit Highlights
During his visit, Sheikh Khaled will visit notable Singapore landmarks and institutions, including the Advanced Remanufacturing and Technology Centre, a collaboration led by A*Star, Singapore’s science and technology agency. Other stops on the itinerary include the Singapore City Gallery, Marina Barrage, Gardens by the Bay, and GlobalFoundries operations.
PM Wong will host an official lunch for Sheikh Khaled on October 30. Looking ahead, PM Wong highlighted the significance of the visit, noting that next year marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries.
