Singapore and Germany have committed to strengthening their collaboration in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, marking a significant step in their strategic partnership. The agreement was reached during a meeting between Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on October 27, focusing on harnessing AI for industrial advancements and ensuring its responsible use.
The updated roadmap builds on a previous agreement introduced in 2024, with a focus on industrial AI, the digital economy, advanced manufacturing, and other emerging technologies. Both leaders emphasized AI’s potential to revolutionize industries, enhance productivity, and generate new business and employment opportunities. The plan aims to increase the application of industrial AI across sectors such as manufacturing, robotics, and logistics.
In addition to expanding the use of AI, Singapore and Germany plan to enhance cooperation on AI safety and security, ensuring the technology remains trustworthy and human-centered. This includes fostering research collaborations during the Singapore-Germany Year of Innovation, with joint projects in areas like semiconductors, quantum technology, space, green technologies, and advanced manufacturing.
The partnership also seeks to bolster economic ties between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the European Union. Singapore intends to collaborate with Germany to promote regional cooperation during its 2027 ASEAN chairmanship, including efforts toward an ASEAN-EU free trade agreement and the integration of digital systems.
Furthermore, the leaders discussed regional energy connectivity and protecting critical underwater infrastructure, such as subsea cables and pipelines. Germany’s support for Singapore’s initiative on underwater infrastructure protection underscores their shared commitment to international law and a rules-based international order.