Canada–Singapore relations

Canada and Singapore have maintained diplomatic relations since 1965. Both nations are members of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, Commonwealth of Nations and the United Nations.

Canada–Singapore relations
Map indicating locations of Canada and Singapore

Canada

Singapore

History

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In 1963, Singapore obtained its independence from the United Kingdom and became an independent nation in 1965. That same year, Canada recognized and established diplomatic relations with Singapore.[1] In 1990, the Canadian International School in Singapore was opened.

Bilateral relations between Canada and Singapore are wide-ranging, and characterized by cooperation in a variety of areas, including: trade, security and defense, education, science and technology and Arctic related issues.[1] In July 1990, Canadian Prime Minister, Brian Mulroney, traveled to Singapore to attend the 2nd APEC Summit. In 1997, Singaporean Prime Minister, Goh Chok Tong, traveled to Canada to attend the 9th APEC Summit in Vancouver. In November 2009, Canadian Prime Minister, Stephen Harper, traveled to Singapore to attend the 21st APEC Summit.

In 2015, both nations celebrated 50 years of diplomatic relations.[2] In November 2018, Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, paid a visit to Singapore to attend the 33rd Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit.[3]

High-level visits

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High-level visits from Canada to Singapore[4]

High-level visits from Singapore to Canada

Bilateral agreement

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Both nations have signed a few agreements such as an Agreement on the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to Taxes on Income (1976) and an Agreement on Cooperation in Information and Computer Technology, which focuses on improving broadband connectivity and linkages (1998).[6][7]

Trade

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In 2018, two-way trade between both nations totaled US$2.53 billion.[1] Canada's main exports to Singapore include: mechanical machinery; electrical machinery and equipment; and scientific and precision instruments. Singapore's main exports to Canada include: electrical machinery and equipment; scientific and precision instruments; and mechanical machinery. In 2018, Singapore was Canada's largest destination in Southeast Asia for Canadian direct investment abroad, and Canada's largest source of foreign direct investment from Southeast Asia.[1]

 
Building hosting the Canadian High Commission in Singapore

Diplomatic missions

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See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b c d Canada - Singapore Relations
  2. ^ 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Singapore and Canada
  3. ^ Prime Minister concludes successful visit to Singapore and participation at ASEAN
  4. ^ MFA Singapore: Canada
  5. ^ "Canada PM Trudeau to make two-day working visit to Singapore". CNA. Mediacorp Pte Ltd. 30 August 2023.
  6. ^ Tax treaties between Canada and Singapore
  7. ^ Singapore – Alberta Relations
  8. ^ High Commission of Canada in Singapore
  9. ^ Singapore Overseas Mission