Lawrence Wong was inaugurated as Singapore's new prime minister at a ceremony on Wednesday, following Lee Hsien Loong's two-decade tenure.
At 51, Wong is the first Singaporean prime minister born after the country's independence. He highlighted that most members of the People's Action Party's fourth-generation team were also born post-1965.
In his inauguration speech, Wong emphasized the core values that have shaped Singapore: incorruptibility, meritocracy, multiracialism, justice, and equality. \"Shaped by these experiences, our leadership style will differ from that of previous generations. We will lead in our own way. We will continue to think boldly and to think far,\" Wong stated.
Addressing the current global climate, Wong acknowledged the challenges ahead, noting Singapore's strength alongside its vulnerability to external influences \"that tug us in different directions.\" He underscored the importance of good leadership, political stability, and long-term planning, praising the foundational policies set by Singapore's founding leaders.
Wong initiated a minor cabinet reshuffle on Monday by promoting Trade Minister Gan Kim Yong to Deputy Prime Minister, emphasizing the need for continuity and stability. He pledged a more significant reshuffle following next year's election, with Lee remaining in the new cabinet as a senior minister, in line with the tradition of former Singaporean prime ministers.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
