Asia is at an important crossroads in a steady shift to a new phase in global affairs. One that is marked by slower trade and economic growth, continuing tensions in sectarian conflicts and maritime disputes, rising income inequality and changing demographics. Technology is also transforming industries and creating both disruptions and opportunities in the economic, political and social environment. More than just economic considerations, initiatives such as ?One Belt, One Road, the Trans-Pacific Partnership, and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership have added another dimension to international and regional relations. Amidst these challenges, the major powers are redefining their strategic relations with each other, and their relationships with countries in Asia. The bilateral relationship between China and the United States remains a key factor for peace and stability in the region. How Asian countries, individually and collectively, deal with these challenges would determine the future prospects of Asia.

It is imperative for all stakeholders to rise up to the challenge, and adjust to the changing landscape. We need to heighten our appreciation of the challenges that may affect Asias growth trajectory and promote greater cooperation and strengthen the foundations for inclusive and sustainable growth in the region and the world. The Singapore Forum aims to promote a regional discourse on Asias future and the geostrategic, politico-economic and governance issues that would have an impact on regional development and stability.

The theme for Singapore Forum 2016 is Asia and the World Shared Opportunity, Shared Prosperity.? The key question is whether and how a rising China and the presently dominant US will define their relationship and avoid the Thucydidess Trap. We will discuss the opportunities and challenges posed by shifts in the external environment, and focus on the political and economic frameworks needed to lead us on to greater stability and prosperity in the region. We will also look at the implementation of various economic architectures that have been created to expand trade and investment in the region as well as measures to improve cross-border transport and infrastructure development. The Forum will also examine the effects of technology on financial systems, the opportunities it presents and its impact on traditional models of banking and finance.

Singapore Forum 2016 begins with the welcome dinner on Friday 1 April. Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic and Social Policies of the Republic of Singapore, Tharman Shanmugaratnam, will deliver the dinner address and share his views during a dialogue session with you at the dinner. This is followed by a full-day Conference on Saturday 2 April, where Mr Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Chairman of the Senate of the Parliament, Republic of Kazakhstan, will deliver the opening address, Dr Narongchai Akrasanee, Chairman, MFC Asset Management Plc., former Minister of Energy and former Minister of Commerce, Thailand, will speak at the luncheon, and Mr Thomas Trikasih Lembong, Minister of Trade of the Republic of Indonesia, will deliver the closing address the same day.

At the inaugural Singapore Forum in April 2015, many guests participated in the wide-ranging discussions covering geostrategic, politico-economic and technology issues that have an impact on regional development and stability. We are encouraged by these very rich and meaningful discussions, and I look forward to having the same robust and thoughtful discussions on how we can create shared opportunities and achieve regional peace and prosperity at Singapore Forum 2016.