SINGAPORE, Dec. 8 (Xinhua) -- The World Economic Forum (WEF)'s decision to hold its Special Annual Meeting in Singapore reflects its confidence in Singapore's management of the COVID-19 pandemic thus far, according to a press release issued Monday by Singapore's Ministry of Trade and Industry.
WEF announced earlier to host its Special Annual Meeting in Singapore in May 2021. This is the second time the meeting will be held outside of Switzerland since its establishment in 1971 and the first time it will be held in Asia.
As the world battles COVID-19, there is an even greater impetus for countries to cooperate, collaborate, and partner each other to address pressing global issues, and the WEF Special Annual Meeting is a key platform for such conversations to take place, the press release quoted Singapore's Minister for Trade and Industry Chan Chun Sing as saying.
WEF's decision to hold its 2021 Special Annual Meeting in Singapore is an affirmation of Singapore's ability to provide a safe, neutral and conducive venue for global leaders to meet, he added.
"Despite the ongoing pandemic, we are confident that Singapore will be able to continue maintaining public health and safety while supporting the WEF's mission to effect positive change through collaboration and engagement," Chan said.
The hosting of WEF's Special Annual Meeting will have a positive impact on Singapore's MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions) sector and adjacent sectors such as hospitality, said the press release.
In response to COVID-19, Singapore has set up new protocols at large-scale meetings and conferences. These protocols include safe management measures such as on-arrival tests, pre-event and periodic antigen testing, as well as contact tracing of attendees.
All international conferences held in Singapore will similarly adhere to strict public health and safety measures, according to the press release. Enditem
