News
September 20, 2025
Singapore will be useful to global partners, but not be made use of: Vivian Balakrishnan
The Foreign Minister stressed that Singapore’s approach is one of consistency and honesty with the US and China.
Singapore Walks a Fine Line, Offers Value, Not Exploitation, to Global Powers
Singapore remains committed to being a valuable partner on the global stage, but will not allow itself to be exploited by larger nations, Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan emphasized recently. Speaking on Singapore's delicate balancing act between the United States and China, Dr. Balakrishnan underscored the nation's unwavering commitment to consistency and honesty in its dealings with both superpowers.
In an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape, Singapore's strategic location and economic prowess make it a sought-after partner. The Foreign Minister’s remarks highlight the tightrope Singapore walks as it navigates the competing interests of the US and China, both vital players in the global economy and security architecture.
Dr. Balakrishnan stressed that Singapore's value lies in its consistent and transparent approach. This means being upfront about its interests and limitations, ensuring that partnerships are built on mutual respect and understanding, rather than on the expectation of blind allegiance or submission to external pressure.
The Foreign Minister articulated a vision of Singapore as a reliable and trustworthy partner, one that offers tangible benefits through its expertise in areas like trade, finance, and technology. By maintaining a principled stance and avoiding the pitfalls of taking sides, Singapore can serve as a bridge between different perspectives and contribute to regional stability.
This approach is particularly crucial in the context of rising tensions between the US and China. Singapore recognizes the importance of maintaining good relations with both countries, understanding that their cooperation is essential for addressing global challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and economic stability.
Dr. Balakrishnan's message sends a clear signal that Singapore intends to remain an independent actor on the world stage, prioritizing its own national interests while contributing to a more peaceful and prosperous global order. The nation's commitment to honesty and consistency is positioned as not just a moral imperative, but also a strategic advantage, ensuring that Singapore is seen as a partner of choice, rather than a pawn in a larger game. This carefully calibrated approach aims to maximize Singapore's influence and ensure its continued relevance in a rapidly changing world.
Singapore remains committed to being a valuable partner on the global stage, but will not allow itself to be exploited by larger nations, Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan emphasized recently. Speaking on Singapore's delicate balancing act between the United States and China, Dr. Balakrishnan underscored the nation's unwavering commitment to consistency and honesty in its dealings with both superpowers.
In an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape, Singapore's strategic location and economic prowess make it a sought-after partner. The Foreign Minister’s remarks highlight the tightrope Singapore walks as it navigates the competing interests of the US and China, both vital players in the global economy and security architecture.
Dr. Balakrishnan stressed that Singapore's value lies in its consistent and transparent approach. This means being upfront about its interests and limitations, ensuring that partnerships are built on mutual respect and understanding, rather than on the expectation of blind allegiance or submission to external pressure.
The Foreign Minister articulated a vision of Singapore as a reliable and trustworthy partner, one that offers tangible benefits through its expertise in areas like trade, finance, and technology. By maintaining a principled stance and avoiding the pitfalls of taking sides, Singapore can serve as a bridge between different perspectives and contribute to regional stability.
This approach is particularly crucial in the context of rising tensions between the US and China. Singapore recognizes the importance of maintaining good relations with both countries, understanding that their cooperation is essential for addressing global challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and economic stability.
Dr. Balakrishnan's message sends a clear signal that Singapore intends to remain an independent actor on the world stage, prioritizing its own national interests while contributing to a more peaceful and prosperous global order. The nation's commitment to honesty and consistency is positioned as not just a moral imperative, but also a strategic advantage, ensuring that Singapore is seen as a partner of choice, rather than a pawn in a larger game. This carefully calibrated approach aims to maximize Singapore's influence and ensure its continued relevance in a rapidly changing world.
Category:
Politics