SINGAPORE: Singapore and Australia are aiming for an “ambitious” and “practical” green economy agreement that will make a difference to both countries, said Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan on Wednesday (Jul 6).
Speaking at a joint press conference with his Australian counterpart Penny Wong, Dr Balakrishnan noted the “longstanding” and “natural” partnership between the two countries.
The green economy agreement is “crucial” for Singapore, with the “existential threat” of climate change, he said.
“I suggested to Minister Wong that we can make this an ambitious, practical, pathfinding agreement. One which will make a difference to our economies, one which will fulfil the climate ambitions of our people, one that makes sense to the business sector as well,” said Dr Balakrishnan.
“Our officials have met so far a few times, but we have agreed that we will press on the accelerator and get them to really arrive at a highly ambitious, pathfinding agreement which will make a difference to both Australia and Singapore, but also help us in our further negotiations with our other partners.”
The newly elected Australian government has “a much greater level of ambition” on climate change, said Ms Wong.
“We are serious about it. And importantly … we see this as an economical opportunity for our countries as well,” she added.
Responding to a question about the projected timeline and challenges for the green economy agreement, Dr Balakrishnan said negotiations are still ongoing.
“I think Penny and I are more interested in ambition than a rushed agreement. I view this agreement as being a part of a template for future agreements,” he added.