US & China Set Their Sights on a Singapore Reset at WEF
The World Economic Forum is switching its secret‑sandwich—no, its annual secret‑savoury meeting—from the snow‑glazed Swiss village of Davos to the bustling streets of Singapore. Why the change? Covid‑19 still throwing its cold shoulder in certain corners of Europe.
What’s on the agenda, and who’s lined up?
- New US President Joe Biden is rumored to talk to his Chinese counterpart over the weekend of May 25‑28.
- Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong believes it’s high time for a “reset” of the super‑power relations.
- Bureau Brussels also hinted that this could become a core strategic priority for Biden.
Why the Singapore bump?
Former President Donald Trump had a less-than‑happy relationship with China—think trade tariffs and criticism over the coronavirus handling. Beijing keeps looking to expand its global clout, nudging the traditional US juggernaut.
Lee Hsien Loong’s hopeful musings
“It cannot possibly be too late for the US and China to reset the tone of their interactions, and avert a clash between them,” he told the WEF chat, while also saying that the new US wife‑over‑the‑door with Biden could steer things into calmer waters.
What’s the uncertainty?
- No official confirmation yet from either Beijing or Washington on who will actually attend.
- Covid‑19 concerns remain a stubborn side‑issue.
- Lee Q wants the WEF and Singapore to keep “rigorous protocols” for health and safety.
Let’s hope for a good outcome!
Lee’s closing line rang like a pep‑talk: “I welcome all of you to Singapore in May… and forge a new path forward together.” We’re all waiting to see if these two giants can finally start a polite chat instead of a political spar.
