Singapore and Germany are expanding cooperation in industrial artificial intelligence (AI), with the partnership expected to create business opportunities and jobs for Singaporean workers.
Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced the updated five-pillar work plan at a joint press conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on 27 October.
The plan covers defence and security, trade, digitalisation and AI, science and innovation, and climate.
Expanding AI
Both countries see industrial AI as an area for closer cooperation, combining their strengths to support innovation and business growth.
“Particularly in the development and deployment of industrial AI, where the strengths of our two countries can complement each other,” Wong said.
The partnership will also support joint research in AI, advanced manufacturing, green technologies, semiconductors, quantum technology and space.
Creating jobs
Wong said closer ties with German companies, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), could create opportunities for Singaporean businesses and workers.
“We are keen to develop these sorts of partnerships, and as we go about doing so, I'm sure it will open up new opportunities for Singapore companies,” Wong said.
He added that workers could gain skills and training through these partnerships as businesses expand into new areas.
Developing skills
Both countries also recognise the risks associated with AI adoption and have committed to promoting its safe and responsible use.
"So even as we both cooperate on AI deployment, we can ensure that this is done in a way that remains safe, trusted and human-centred," Wong said.
While the partnership is expected to support job creation and workforce development, the two countries have not specified how many jobs could be created.