SINGAPORE] Singapore has upgraded its bilateral relations with Vietnam to the highest tier of Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) on Wednesday (Mar 12), marking the first such tie between the city-state and an Asean member state.

The two nations now have a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, Singapore's first such partnership with an ASEAN member state.

A joint report was endorsed which states regulatory approvals for renewables trading. Singapore and Vietnam have accelerated their bilateral cooperation in renewable energy as they boost efforts to transition to clean energy.

The upgrade came three days after Vietnam similarly elevated Indonesia to the highest tier in its diplomatic hierarchy.

Thang further stressed Vietnam’s economic potential, citing its large population and integral role in ASEAN’s supply chain. He underscored the significant opportunities for Singapore to diversify and expand its economic engagement in Southeast Asia through stronger collaboration with Vietnam.

The two nations' deepened cooperation will focus on key areas including security, technology, and green energy.