Singapore Strengthens its Bridge Role Between Europe and Asia
At the inaugural «Europe Conference 2025», Singapore reaffirmed its position as a trusted hub linking Europe and Asia – driving sustainability, innovation, and long-term collaboration across continents.
Co-organised by the Singapore Business Federation (SBF) and the European Chamber of Commerce Singapore (EuroCham), the event celebrated 60 years of strong Europe-Singapore relations.
Held on 14 October 2025, it drew more than 300 participants from seven countries, underscoring the depth of engagement between the two regions.
Future Anchored in Sustainability and Innovation
Centred on the theme «Sustainability & Innovation», the conference convened business leaders, policymakers, and innovators to chart strategies for building resilient, future-ready economies.
Speakers highlighted the urgency of cross-border collaboration and cross-sector partnerships to navigate global uncertainties and drive sustainable growth.
Building Bridges in a Changing World
Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Vivian Balakrishnan, opened the conference with a keynote on deepening Europe–Singapore ties.
He urged stronger cooperation in the digital and green economies, greater support for multilateralism, and closer ASEAN-EU collaboration – encouraging European firms to use Singapore as a springboard into Southeast Asia.
Family Businesses as Catalysts of Change
A special session moderated by Federico Donato of MG Partners MFO showcased the growing role of family-owned enterprises in strengthening Europe-Asia linkages.
Speakers Peter Vyncke of Vyncke NV and Gan See Khem of HMI Medical shared how family firms balance tradition with transformation – from managing generational shifts to embracing innovation while staying true to their values.
Scaling Innovation Through Partnerships
In another panel, moderated by Marcus Lam, Executive Chairman of PwC Singapore, business leaders explored how Singapore’s ecosystem can fuel innovation.
Experts including Lawrence Wu of EDP Renewables APAC and Juliana Kua of the Ministry of Trade and Industry, offered practical strategies to help enterprises at different stages of their transformation journeys.
Hub for Collaboration and Growth
Beyond the discussions, the conference served as a platform for new connections. Participants engaged in cross-industry networking, explored overseas market opportunities, and established partnerships designed to build resilient, future-ready business ecosystems.
«The inaugural Europe Conference 2025 spotlights Singapore as a gateway for bridging Europe and Asia,» said SBF Chairman S. S. Teo. «By working alongside our European counterparts, we are laying the foundation of trust, innovation, and long-term collaboration.»
Milestone for Europe–Asia Connectivity
Supported by partners including Gulf Air, BPM LLP, EDP, Jason Marine, and PSA International, the event marked a significant milestone in advancing Europe-Asia connectivity.
It underscored Singapore’s enduring role as a strategic hub driving digitalisation, resilience, and sustainability – the key forces shaping the future of international business.
