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SG101
Articles

Orchid Diplomacy

Topic

Foreign policy

Society

Subtopic

Heritage

Identity and values

23 June 2025

The gifting of orchids to foreign dignitaries plays an important role in building bilateral ties and serves as a gesture of friendship to promote goodwill between Singapore and other countries.

Orchid diplomacy is a uniquely Singapore tradition that started in 1956.

Former President Barack Obama, Former Malaysia Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, and President Xi Jinping were some of our foreign dignitaries who had orchid hybrids named after them during their visits to Singapore!


A "Did You Know" infographic showcasing world leaders with their namesake orchids. Photos include Barack and Michelle Obama, Dr. Mahathir Mohamad and Siti Hasmah, and Xi Jinping with Peng Liyuan, each standing next to their unique orchid hybrids.

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