On September 20, 2017, Huang Wei, Vice Minister of Science and Technology met with a visiting delegation of National Research Foundation (NRF) of Singapore led by its CEO Dr. Low Teck Seng. The two sides exchanged in-depth views on strengthening bilateral and regional cooperation in science, technology and innovation (STI).

Vice Minister Huang Wei pointed out that exciting progress has been made in China-Singapore cooperation in science and technology (S&T) in recent years and that the two sides have supported researchers of both countries to carry out research and development (R&D) cooperation through the China-Singapore Joint Research Program and launched key projects including China-Singapore Innovation Center and Water Treatment International Innovation Park. Vice Minister Huang Wei briefed the Singaporean side on the Belt and Road Science, Technology and Innovation Cooperation Action Plan as well as China’s plan on the 2018 China-ASEAN Year of Innovation, and noted that there is a close people-to-people bond between China and Singapore and huge potential in bilateral cooperation. Vice Minister Huang Wei remarked that as the rotating presidency of ASEAN in 2018, Singapore plays an essential role in the Belt and Road Initiative and within the 10+1 cooperation framework. He welcomed the Singaporean side to participate in the relevant cooperation and promote greater progress in bilateral and regional cooperation together with China.

Dr. Low Teck Seng appreciated China’s efforts and believed that China-Singapore S&T cooperation enjoys a solid foundation, covers a wide scope and has accomplished fruitful achievements. He said that the Belt and Road Science, Technology and Innovation Cooperation Action Plan put forward by the Chinese side is very inspiring and that the NRF is willing to participate in key cooperation projects including joint laboratory building and exchanges between young scientists. He expressed full support for the relevant events and programs of the China-ASEAN Year of Innovation and will push forward bilateral S&T cooperation to achieve practical results.

Officials including Cai Jianing, Deputy Director-General of International Cooperation of MOST were present at the meeting.