Baushuan Ger
Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs
ROC (Taiwan)
August 31, 2026
(As Prepared for Delivery)
The Honorable Foo Teow Lee, Trade Representative of the Singapore Trade Office in Taipei;
Johnny Chiang, Vice President Legislative Yuan;
Joseph Wu, Secretary General, National Security Council;
Chi Lien-cheng, Minister without Portfolio;
Koo Li-hsiung, Minister, Ministry of National Defense;
Honorable ministers and legislators;
Excellencies Ambassadors and Honorable Representatives;
distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen:
Good evening!
I am honored to join you tonight in celebration of the 61st National Day of the Republic of Singapore. On behalf of the people and government of Taiwan, I extend my warmest congratulations to the people and government of Singapore.
Taiwan and Singapore enjoy a long-standing friendship. Over the years— through close exchanges in such domains as trade, investment, technology, education, culture, tourism, and talent development—we have established deep and close-knit connections. Our cordial partnership has yielded tangible results.
After assuming office earlier this year, Trade Representative Foo witnessed the renewed Taiwan-Singapore income tax agreement enter into force on February 13. Effective January 1, 2027, the agreement will provide enhanced tax protections for investors on both sides. And in 2025, Taiwan became Singapore’s largest trading partner for the first time. With bilateral trade continuing to show strong momentum, propelled by the rise of AI, Taiwan is expected to retain its leading position this year.
In addition to being important economic and trade partners, Taiwan and Singapore share similar development paths. Since its founding in 1965, Singapore—like Taiwan—has navigated geopolitical challenges amid a shifting international landscape. Both countries have chosen global trade as the foundation of their development. And by upholding the rule of law and the rules-based international order, our two sides have steadily achieved remarkable economic success.
As AI and digital transformation rapidly evolve, bringing new opportunities and challenges, Taiwan and Singapore are well positioned to respond. Our nations boast robust technology sectors and extensive experience in digital governance. We are also actively bolstering cybersecurity and communications resilience. Taiwan looks forward to exchanging expertise and furthering collaboration in these areas. Together, we can strengthen digital resilience so that technological innovation drives economic growth and benefits our peoples.
Beyond bilateral cooperation, we also look forward to continuing to work with Singapore in the international arena. We hope that Singapore will leverage its influence to support Taiwan’s accession to the CPTPP. Taiwan stands ready to work with Singapore to contribute to regional peace, stability, and prosperity. Under Trade Representative Foo’s leadership, I am confident that the Singapore Trade Office in Taipei will continue to bring bilateral relations to new heights.
In closing, I wish Singapore a prosperous and bright future as it celebrates its 61st National Day. May the friendship between Taiwan and Singapore endure for generations to come. I wish you all a wonderful evening. Thank you!