Singapore and South Korea have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to boost co-operation in the health sector, covering areas from advanced medical technology to aged care.
The agreement was signed on Thursday in New York by Singapore’s Minister for Health and Co-ordinating Minister for Social Policies Ong Ye Kung and South Korea’s Minister of Health and Welfare Jeong Eun-kyeong.
The signing took place during a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly’s high-level discussions on noncommunicable diseases and mental health, Singapore’s Ministry of Health informed in a news release.
Under the deal, both countries will strengthen collaboration in health security, research and development, healthcare regulation, and the adoption of new technologies.
Officials said the MOU reflects the strong working relationship between Singapore and South Korea and demonstrates the shared commitment to tackle future healthcare challenges together, while also exploring new areas of partnership.
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Deepening ties through forensic science collaboration
In early September, the Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority (HSA) and South Korea’s National Forensic Service (NFS) formalised their partnership with a MOU signing in Incheon City, South Korea.
The agreement, endorsed by HSA Chief Executive Officer Adjunct Professor Raymond Chua and NFS Director-General Dr Lee Bong-woo, aims to advance co-operation in forensic science through joint research, staff training, and knowledge exchange.
HSA said the two agencies will work together on seminars, study visits, and the exchange of scientific findings to enhance the accuracy and reliability of forensic services.
Celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations
Singapore and South Korea have maintained strong bilateral ties over the years, and this year marks five decades of their friendship.
To celebrate this milestone, President Tharman Shanmugaratnam sent a congratulatory letter to President Lee Jae-myung, calling the relationship a “deep and abiding partnership” that continues to grow stronger each year.
In addition, the Singapore Embassy in Seoul and the South Korean Embassy in the city-state jointly launched a special anniversary logo.
The design shows the number 50, with the “5” forming a blue swirl inspired by South Korea’s Taeguk symbol and the “0” shaped as a red crescent with five stars from Singapore’s flag.
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