Shanmugam visit to China builds on partnership with S'pore in fight against scams & drugs: MHA

Singapore’s Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs, K Shanmugam, made an official visit to China from Jan. 31 to Feb. 3, as both countries look to strengthen cooperation in law enforcement, particularly in tackling scams and drug trafficking.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said the trip forms part of ongoing efforts to deepen bilateral collaboration in security-related areas.

Focus on scams and countering drug trafficking

During his visit to Beijing, Shanmugam met Secretary of the Central Political and Legal Affairs Commission, Chen Wenqing, as well as Chinese State Councillor and Minister of Public Security, Wang Xiaohong.

Chen is also a member of the Communist Party of China’s Politburo, and oversees national security and intelligence.

MHA said Shanmugam reaffirmed the strong working relationship between Singaporean and Chinese agencies during discussions with Wang.

Both sides explored ways as well to expand cooperation in law enforcement, with a focus on combating scams and countering drug trafficking.

They also agreed to increase regular exchanges to further strengthen ties between the two countries’ agencies.

Cooperation in legal and judicial fields, Social Governance Forum

In his meeting with Chen, Shanmugam discussed broader collaboration not only in law enforcement, but also in legal and judicial areas.

Shanmugam also expressed his anticipation for the successful convening of the 5th Singapore-China Social Governance Forum later this year.

The forum serves as a platform for both countries to exchange perspectives and experiences on common societal issues.

Chen is the Chinese co-chair of the forum.

Part of upgraded Singapore-China partnership

MHA said the visit builds on the “All-Round High-Quality Future-Oriented Partnership” between Singapore and China, which was upgraded in 2023 to enhance mutual trust and cooperation across security and other domains.

The latest engagement underscores both countries’ interest in strengthening institutional ties as they confront evolving security threats such as scams and illicit drug activity.

Top photos via MHA