Singapore president and PM congratulate Trump on re-election, pledge to strengthen US-Singapore relations

SINGAPORE: Prime Minister Lawrence Wong congratulated Donald Trump on Wednesday (6 November), following Trump’s election as the 47th president of the United States.

In a congratulatory letter, Wong commended Trump on receiving “an overwhelming mandate” from the American public, expressing confidence in his leadership as the country’s head of state.

“I extend my warmest congratulations on your election as the 47th president of the United States of America,” Wong wrote to Trump.

“The American people have given you an overwhelming mandate and placed their trust in you to lead the US again. I am confident that under your stewardship, the US will continue to grow and exercise its global leadership role.”

Wong also wrote to Trump’s running mate, JD Vance, congratulating him on becoming the new vice president.

Strengthening bilateral ties and regional leadership

On Facebook, Wong emphasised Singapore’s readiness to collaborate closely with the incoming Trump administration to reinforce both bilateral relations and the US’s influence in the Asia-Pacific region.

He stated that Singapore is prepared to work together with Trump’s team to “further strengthen the US’ partnerships in the Asia-Pacific.”

Wong also extended an invitation to Trump to visit Singapore, where he last appeared in 2018 during the historic summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the US-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (FTA), the only such agreement between the US and an ASEAN nation.

Wong noted that since the FTA’s inception, bilateral trade has almost tripled, with Singapore’s investments in the US supporting over 270,000 jobs.

“During his first term, we made significant strides in strengthening our relationship, especially in areas like defence, the economy, and trade,” Wong added, expressing optimism for further developments in these areas.

Speaking to reporters during an introductory visit to Indonesia, Wong recounted how the Trump administration’s earlier term had led to key advancements, including the extension of a defence pact permitting US forces to use Singapore’s air and naval bases.

He highlighted that this pact has allowed both nations to enhance trade and investment, reinforcing their partnership.

Wong expressed hope that the renewed partnership with the US would continue to serve as a stabilising force for the Southeast Asia region, with American investment and military presence playing a critical role in regional security.

“America is still the largest source of foreign direct investments in Southeast Asia, so obviously American companies play a key role in driving economic growth and creating jobs,” Wong said.

He also stressed the importance of American security presence in the region for maintaining stability.

Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam’s statement

Separately, Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam also extended his congratulations to Trump.

In a Facebook post, Tharman described the US-Singapore relationship as “deep and enduring,” reiterating the city-state’s intention to work closely with Trump’s administration.

Tharman noted that Trump would “lead a nation in need of healing,” referencing the current divisions within American society.

He added that Trump’s commitment, as pledged in his victory speech, to work “for every citizen, their families, and their future” will be an essential focus for his administration.

Tharman expressed hope that America’s role on the global stage would continue to foster peace and prosperity for nations worldwide.

Trump’s second term vision and campaign focus

Trump secured the presidency by surpassing the 270 electoral vote threshold, marking a historic comeback after his previous term in office.

Democratic candidate Kamala Harris conceded the election to Trump, acknowledging the shift of key battleground states to the Republican side.

Trump’s campaign highlighted key economic concerns, such as rising inflation, food prices, and housing affordability, themes that resonated with voters in pivotal states.

Trump’s inauguration is scheduled for 20 January 2025.  Following his election, Trump has pledged to guide the US towards a “golden age” and has outlined an agenda aimed at addressing economic challenges while reinforcing America’s global leadership role.