Singapore, EU initial text of ESPCA

SINGAPORE — The bilateral relations between Singapore and the European Union (EU) have taken an important step forward.

Chief negotiators of both sides initialled the text of the EU-Singapore Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (ESPCA) today (Oct 14) at a ceremony held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).

The Agreement will strengthen political dialogue and set the framework for cooperation in a broad range of areas such as education, transport, energy, science and technology.

In a joint statement, the EU’s European External Action Service and MFA said the ESPCA is a joint endeavour that will further deepen EU-Singapore relations beyond the realm of trade and investment.

ESPCA will complement the Free Trade Agreement that was initialled by the EU and Singapore on Sept 20.

These two agreements give the EU and Singapore a platform to bring their relations to a new, higher level.

The signing of the ESPCA will take place on a mutually agreed date, after the completion of internal procedures necessary on both sides.

ESPCA will enter into force once it has been ratified by both parties. CHANNEL NEWSASIA