SINGAPORE: In a significant diplomatic engagement, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong will embark on an important journey to South America, participating in two high-profile multilateral meetings from November 14 to November 20.

Wong’s first stop will be Peru, where he will attend the 31st Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting (AELM) from November 14 to 16. This event is hosted by President Dina Boluarte, who has invited leaders from across the Asia-Pacific region to address pressing economic issues.

Following his time in Peru, Wong will travel to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, for the G20 Summit from November 17 to 20, at the invitation of Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. This year, Brazil holds the G20 presidency, which adds a layer of significance to the discussions that are expected to take place.

Under the theme “Empower, Include, Grow,” APEC leaders will engage in dialogues focused on strategies to bolster trade and investment to promote inclusive and interconnected growth. Key topics will also include the push towards a formal global economy, reflecting the changing landscape of business and finance in the region.

Wong is anticipated to play an active role in various high-level dialogues and the Leaders' Retreat, seeking collaborative solutions to the economic challenges posed by a post-pandemic world.

Simultaneously, Brazil’s G20 summit embraces the theme “Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet,” addressing global issues such as inequality, hunger, and poverty. The summit aims to foster sustainable growth while advocating for reforms in global governance to tackle these persistent challenges.

During the G20 discussions, Prime Minister Wong will emphasize the significance of multilateral cooperation for fostering economic growth, the necessity for reform in global governance institutions to increase developmental impact, and the transition to sustainable energy sources. Additionally, job creation will be a critical point in the talks, aligning with the United Nations’ sustainable development goals.

In addition to his participation in these monumental summits, Mr. Wong is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with various leaders on the sidelines of both the AELM and the G20 Summit. This will provide a valuable opportunity to strengthen bilateral ties and discuss collaborations that transcend mere economic interests.

Wong will be accompanied by Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan, along with senior officials from both the Prime Minister's Office and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Notably, senior officials from the Ministry of Trade and Industry and the Ministry of Finance will also be part of the delegations to APEC and G20, respectively.

As the world watches these events unfold, PM Wong’s participation signifies Singapore’s commitment to leading discussions on critical global challenges, showcasing its role as a key player in shaping future international policies.