PM Lawrence Wong’s Five-Day Africa Trip to South Africa and Ethiopia

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong is set to embark on a five-day journey to Africa, starting on Friday. His trip includes visits to Johannesburg in South Africa and the Ethiopian capital city of Addis Ababa. Initially, Mr. Wong will attend the G20 Summit in Johannesburg from November 21 to November 23, where he was invited by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. Despite Singapore not being a G20 member, it has been a consistent invitee since 2010.

Following the summit, Mr. Wong will head to Addis Ababa for an official visit from November 23 to November 25, upon the invitation of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali. During a recent party convention, Mr. Wong emphasized the importance of expanding Singapore’s diplomatic ties globally to stay relevant in a rapidly changing world, particularly in regions like Africa and Latin America.

At the G20 Summit, discussions will focus on promoting growth and ensuring a fair future amidst advancements in artificial intelligence and evolving work environments. This year’s summit theme, ‘Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,’ reflects South Africa’s commitment to addressing global challenges like climate change, inequality, and geopolitical instability. Bilateral meetings with counterparts are also on Mr. Wong’s agenda.

In Ethiopia, Mr. Wong will partake in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Adwa Victory Memorial Monument and receive a ceremonial welcome at the National Palace. He will engage in a joint press conference with Prime Minister Abiy, witness the signing of bilateral agreements, and participate in a tree planting ceremony to emphasize sustainable development. This trip marks Mr. Wong’s inaugural visit to Ethiopia and his first bilateral trip to Africa since assuming office, symbolizing the strong relationship between Singapore and Ethiopia.

Accompanied by his wife and officials, Mr. Wong will also meet the Director General of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention to discuss collaborations with Singapore. Additionally, a visit to the factory of Repi Wilmar, a Singapore-owned soap and detergent manufacturer in Ethiopia, is scheduled. During his absence, Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong and Coordinating Minister K Shanmugam will serve as Acting Prime Ministers on specific dates.