Singapore and Indonesia Reaffirm Strong Ties at Final Leaders' Retreat

On April 29, 2024, Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Indonesian President Joko Widodo met in Bogor, Indonesia, for their seventh and final Leaders' Retreat. The meeting marked a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship between the two nations, celebrating the achievements of their robust cooperation over the years.

Why this matters: The strengthened ties between Singapore and Indonesia have far-reaching implications for regional stability and economic growth, as both countries play vital roles in ASEAN and the global economy. The continuity of cooperation pledged by the leaders will be critical in addressing shared challenges and promoting peace in the region and beyond. The continuity of cooperation pledged by the leaders will be critical in addressing shared challenges and promoting peace in the region and beyond.

The Expanded Framework, which came into force on March 21, 2024, demonstrates the pragmatic and mutually beneficial approach adopted by Singapore and Indonesia. The framework includes historic agreements including the Realignment of the Boundary between the Jakarta Flight Information Region and the Singapore FIR, the Treaty for the Extradition of Fugitives, and the Defence Cooperation Agreement. These agreements effectively resolve longstanding issues between the two countries.

Economic cooperation between Singapore and Indonesia has reached new heights, with investments surpassing S$74 billion. The extension of the Bilateral Financing Agreement solidifies financialcooperationamid global economic uncertainties, while the signing of the Joint Update on Defence Cooperation signals enhanced collaboration in defense matters.

Looking ahead, both leaders emphasized the importance of exploring new growth areas, particularly in the green economy and digital sectors. The signing of various memoranda of understanding, including on Community Empowerment in Mangrove Ecosystems andCooperationon Digital Transformation, highlights their commitment to sustainable development and technological advancement. The launch of the Tech:X programme aims to empower young tech professionals from both countries through cross-border exchanges, promoting innovation and collaboration.

On the regional and global stage, Prime Minister Lee and President Widodo reiterated their commitment to working together within ASEAN and other international organizations like the UN. This collaborative approach highlights the importance of multilateralism in addressing shared challenges and promoting peace and stability in the region and beyond.

Two leaders bid farewell, Prime Minister Lee expressed appreciation for Indonesia's contributions to the bilateral relationship. "As Prime Minister Lee bid farewell to President Joko Widodo, he expressed appreciation for Indonesia's contributions to the bilateral relationship, affirming Singapore's unwavering support for Indonesia's growth and prosperity," the joint statement read. Both leaders expressed confidence in the continuity of strong bilateralcooperationin the future, even as they prepare to step down from their respective positions.

The final Leaders' Retreat between Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and President Joko Widodo showcases the deep and enduring friendship between Singapore and Indonesia. As they prepare to pass the baton to their successors, the two leaders leave behind a legacy of strengthened ties, expanded cooperation, and a shared vision for a prosperous and stable future for both nations and the wider region.

Key Takeaways

• Singapore and Indonesia strengthen ties at 7th Leaders' Retreat.
• Expanded Framework resolves longstanding issues between nations.
• Economic cooperation reaches new heights with S$74 billion investments.
• Leaders pledge cooperation in green economy, digital sectors, and defense.
• Both nations commit to multilateralism and regional stability.