WELLINGTON — New Zealand and Singapore committed to strengthening cooperation in the next phase of their relationship.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon made the statement after holding a bilateral meeting on Monday with Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in Singapore, according to a New Zealand government statement.

The strengthening of the cooperation will be under the Singapore-New Zealand Enhanced Partnership, with the relationship to be elevated by the end of 2025, Luxon said.

Luxon was in Singapore as part of his visit to Southeast Asia this week.

The two prime ministers agreed to streamline flows of critical supplies between Singapore and New Zealand during times of crisis, the statement said, adding the two countries will continue to strengthen defense and security cooperation.

The two sides also agreed to continue cooperation on green economy initiatives, including on energy and transport technology, and finance and investment including carbon markets.

"Singapore is New Zealand's closest security and economic partner in Southeast Asia," Luxon said.