The Minister-President of Flanders, Patrick Dewael, met with Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong at 12 noon today at the Istana. The two leaders exchanged views on a broad range of topics, for example, on innovation and enterprise, development of information technology and e-government services, and how to use technology for higher productivity in port operations. They also discussed bilateral relations and expressed satisfaction with each other’s investment projects in Flanders and Singapore. Prime Minister Goh briefed Minister-President Dewael on the major developments in the region and how they would affect economic progress and regional stability.

One of the outcomes of the meeting was a Joint Declaration on Cooperation between Singapore and Flanders in the Fields of Industry, Technology, Research and Education. The text of the Joint Declaration is appended below:

ON 18TH SEPTEMBER 2001

The Prime Minister of Singapore and the Minister-President of Flanders have the intention to strengthen co-operation in various fields relating to industry, technology, research and education.

Both governments already enjoy close links through their companies and research institutes. There is wide scope for both parties to build upon existing ties and alliances to create new synergies for the benefit of their people and institutions.

Mindful of the mutual benefits of enhanced co-operation, Singapore and Flanders agree to work to define and implement specific initiatives and modes of co-operation that will include:

1) exchanges and attachments of students, staff, researchers/scientists from universities and research institutes, as well as of working professionals

2) joint projects in research, technology and innovation among research institutes, universities and companies

3. collaboration in technology brokerage events to promote links between start-ups, venture capital firms and entrepreneurs

4) R&D, investment and business missions

5) co-investments and joint industrial projects.

The areas of cooperation will include but not be limited to the following knowledge based fields:

• life sciences and healthcare, including biotechnology and medical equipment
• info-communications and electronics
• infrastructure and logistics
• chemicals and advanced materials
• engineering and environment
• venture capital and co-investment.

The Governments of Singapore and Flanders also share the view that for the success of this Joint Declaration, it will be essential to strengthen the contacts and dialogue between their respective leaders, academia, researchers and businessmen. In this context, bilateral visits and exchanges are strongly encouraged.

It is understood that the activities mentioned above are in no way imperative or have any limiting character."

. . . . .

18 September 2001