On 14 January 2013, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul met Mrs. Chua Siew San, Singaporean Ambassador to Thailand. Both sides discussed overall relations between Thailand and Singapore, in particular the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Surapong’s first official visit to Singapore from 23 - 24 February 2013 to preside over the opening of the annual Civil Service Exchange Program (CSEP) in Singapore. 

On the bilateral front, both sides expressed satisfaction towards the close and cordial relations, as well as the progress and developments in all levels and dimensions. Both expressed readiness to share experiences and best practices in several areas of cooperation, including the rule of law, ethics and accountability, as well as people’s participation in formulating government policies.

On the regional front, Thailand and Singapore share similar strategic outlook. Both attach importance to ASEAN and its centrality, and are working actively together to shape the regional security architecture.

The upcoming CSEP meeting will be another opportunity for both countries to strengthen relations with one another. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Surapong plans to exchange views and opinions with his Singaporean counterpart in various areas, focusing on (1) the promotion of trade and investment in the areas that both countries could complement one another (2) the forging of partnership in education and (3) the cooperation on major regional issues and the promotion of ASEAN solidarity to face global challenges.