Singapore and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have solidified their partnership by signing multiple agreements focused on key areas such as the green economy, climate change, and digital governance. The agreements were formally exchanged in Abu Dhabi, witnessed by Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan on October 22, 2023.

The agreements consist of seven memoranda of understanding (MOUs) and a framework agreement on the green economy. They encompass diverse sectors, including education, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and halal food certification. This initiative reinforces the robust bilateral relations established under the Singapore-UAE Comprehensive Partnership, originally signed in February 2019.

During the meeting, both leaders reiterated their commitment to effective climate cooperation, emphasizing a joint statement that outlines their shared goals of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. They discussed the importance of facilitating a just energy transition and fostering a supportive international economic system.

Prime Minister Lee highlighted the necessity of delivering financial commitments to restore confidence in the multilateral climate change process. He also engaged in discussions regarding the future of the UAE’s energy transition at the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, exploring opportunities in decarbonization and the development of renewable energy and hydrogen production.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Lee’s itinerary included a meeting with the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince, Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, as well as a gathering with Singaporeans living overseas, illustrating the deepening ties and mutual interests between the two nations.