Vivian Balakrishnan
Singapore
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs does not issue advisories on wait times at overseas airports. Travellers may wish to monitor airline and airport websites, as well as news reports for real-time information on wait times and potential disruptions at specific airports.”
“When the conflict in the Middle East deteriorated and commercial flights were halted in March 2026, the Singapore Government mounted four repatriation flights from Muscat, Riyadh and Jeddah to bring stranded Singaporeans home.”
“The Government has stepped up public engagement to explain our foreign policy fundamentals and responses to key international developments to Singaporeans and to hear their views. We do this through dialogue sessions across segments of society, including students, youths, businesses and community leaders.”
“And the larger point during the Committee of Supply was that precisely, because the world is in such a difficult, prickly, volatile and dangerous state, actually, if we keep our wits about ourselves, we maintain unity and we continue to have this clear eye-realistic, but principled, approach, there are many opportunities for Singapore.”
“Well, in short, I completely agree with you. And that is why we have indeed been hosting these events and in your own capacity as a national athlete and also as an official now, you have seen how it works in practice.”
“Since 2022, about half of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) employees are women. The proportion of women in senior appointments has remained stable at about a quarter. We recognise that overseas postings are disruptive for officers with families, especially female officers who bear greater caregiving responsibilities.”
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“In general, the Singapore Government does not accord privileges, immunity and hospitality to former Heads of State or Heads of Government. Consequently, former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa was not accorded any privileges, immunity or hospitality.”
“MFA has not made such a request, and has no plans to do so. All countries have immigration criteria that address their own specific needs. The Singapore Government does not intervene in other countries’ immigration criteria.”
“The Central Bank of Myanmar (CBM) announced on 3 April 2022 that all foreign currency deposited in banks in Myanmar must be converted to the Myanmar Kyat at a mandated rate within one business day. Subsequently, on 20 April 2022, CBM exempted certain entities from the directive, including approved foreign investments, foreign missions and international organisations. This latest development is yet another setback for Myanmar's economy, which has already been severely disrupted since the military coup on 1 February 2021. The Singapore Embassy in Yangon, like many other foreign embassies and international business chambers, has expressed our concerns about the impact of the CBM's directive on Singapore companies operating in Myanmar. We have sought clarification over the scope of the regulations and requested for exemptions to be applied to Singapore companies and are still waiting for CBM's response. Given the heightened uncertainty associated with doing business in Myanmar, Singapore companies must make their own commercial assessments about the Myanmar market.”
“I call on all parties, and this includes the Russian Federation and the Ukrainian authorities, to fully cooperate with the independent UN HRC Commission and to allow full and unhindered access for it to conduct its work. The unhindered work of this Commission is crucial for the credibility and effectiveness of HRC and the UN. I also want to express Singapore's full support for the work of the UN and its agencies to provide humanitarian support and to find a peaceful solution to the war in Ukraine. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong was in New York in March 2022 where he met UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and received an update on the situation in Ukraine. He expressed our support for the work of the UN and the Secretary-General. We also welcome the recent visits to Moscow and Kyiv by the Secretary-General. We believe that the good offices of the Secretary-General will be crucial in this crisis, especially in facilitating the creation of humanitarian corridors and in delivering much needed assistance to the people of Ukraine.”
“On 30 March 2022, the President of HRC appointed three experts from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Colombia and Norway to serve on the Commission initially for a year. Headed by an international jurist from Norway, the Commission will conduct investigations and make recommendations, in particular, on accountability measures. The Commission will report its initial findings to HRC and UN General Assembly at their 51st and 77th Sessions respectively, beginning in September 2022. Singapore supports the Commission and we expect accountability for any gross and systematic human rights violations committed during the war in Ukraine. We would have preferred for a decision on the Russian Federation's membership of HRC to be made after the Commission reports its findings. Procedurally, this would set the proper precedent in terms of independent fact-gathering and support for the findings of a UN HRC-mandated Commission. This is consistent with Singapore's longstanding support for the rules-based multilateral system, the UN and the due application of its mechanisms and procedures. Our abstention, was, thus a principled one. It is consistent with our position throughout this crisis not to take sides, but to take a stand based on principles, international law and the UN Charter. Let me take this opportunity to say that we are very concerned about the unfolding humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. We are especially disturbed and distressed by media reports of indiscriminate destruction of civilian infrastructure, the killing of civilians, especially children, and the discovery of mass graves in some cities of Ukraine.”
“Russia's invasion of Ukraine has undermined the global order. It subverts the basic rules and norms for how all countries, big or small, interact with one another. This flagrant violation of the United Nations (UN) Charter is dangerous for all countries, but, especially, for small states like Singapore. Our very existence as a sovereign state, with territorial integrity and independence to chart our own destiny, will be threatened if the international rule of law can be abandoned, or obstructed, so cavalierly. A UN Security Council Resolution to condemn Russia's invasion of Ukraine had failed to pass because of a Russian veto. The dangerous precedent that 'might makes right' is not a theoretical, but an existential issue for a small state like Singapore. That is why Singapore has taken a strong stand to condemn the invasion and imposed targeted sanctions on Russia. We co-sponsored and voted in support of two UN General Assembly Resolutions on the "Aggression against Ukraine" and the "Humanitarian consequences of the aggression against Ukraine". We also co-sponsored a UN Human Rights Council (HRC) Resolution on the "Situation of human rights in Ukraine stemming from the Russian aggression", which was adopted by an overwhelming majority on 4 March 2022. Ms Sylvia Lim has asked why we abstained at the subsequent UN General Assembly vote on 7 April 2022 concerning the suspension of the rights of membership of the Russian Federation in the HRC. We abstained because of the need to comply with due process at the UN. A key outcome of the HRC Resolution that Singapore co-sponsored was to establish an Independent International Commission of Inquiry to investigate all alleged abuses of human rights and violations of international humanitarian law in Ukraine.”
“The full scope of the sanctions imposed by Singapore on Russia is set out in MFA's Press Statement of 5 March 2022 and the enclosed factsheets, as well as MAS Notices SNR-N01 and SNR-N02, issued by MAS to all financial institutions in Singapore on 14 March 2022, which have been published on MAS' website.”
“In particular, this includes a ban on the transfer to Russia of all items in the Military Goods List and all items in the "Electronics", "Computers" and "Telecommunications and Information Security" categories of the Dual-Use Goods List in the Strategic Goods (Control) Order 2021. In addition, we have imposed financial measures targeted at designated Russian banks and activities in Russia and fundraising activities benefiting the Russian government. These measures apply to all financial institutions in Singapore, including banks, finance companies, insurers, capital markets intermediaries, securities exchanges and payment service providers. Specifically, financial institutions in Singapore are prohibited from: (a) Dealing with designated Russian banks and are required to freeze their assets; (b) Entering into financial transactions or providing financial assistance or services in relation to the export from, transhipment in, or transit through Singapore or any other jurisdiction of goods subject to Singapore's export controls on Russia; (c) Entering into financial transactions or providing financial assistance or services in relation to the raising of new funds by the Russian government, the Central Bank of the Russian Federation or any legal person or legal arrangement owned or controlled by them or acting on their behalf or under their direction; (d) Entering into financial transactions or providing financial assistance or services in relation to specific sectors in the breakaway regions of Donetsk and Luhansk; and (e) Entering into or facilitating any digital payment token transactions which may be used to circumvent any of the above prohibitions.”
“Singapore is a consistent and staunch supporter of international law and the principles enshrined in the UN Charter. The sovereignty, political independence and territorial integrity of all countries, big and small, must be respected. Singapore takes any violation of these core principles seriously, as they are fundamental to the survival of Singapore, a small state. Russia's invasion of Ukraine contravenes the UN Charter and is a clear and gross violation of international law. We cannot accept the Russian government's violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of another sovereign state. For a small state like Singapore, this is not a theoretical principle, but a dangerous precedent. This is why Singapore has strongly condemned Russia's unprovoked attack on Ukraine. Since the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution to condemn Russia's aggression against Ukraine failed to pass due to Russia's veto and given the unprecedented gravity of Russia's attack on Ukraine, Singapore decided that we will impose appropriate sanctions and restrictions against Russia. Many other countries around the world have joined in the international sanctions. As announced on 5 March 2022, our sanctions and restrictions aim to constrain Russia's capacity to conduct war against Ukraine and undermine its sovereignty. We have imposed export controls on items that can be directly used as weapons to inflict harm on or to subjugate the Ukrainians, as well as items that can contribute to offensive cyber operations.”
“Second, on 3 March 2022, calling for an immediate ceasefire and the continuation of political dialogue which would lead to sustainable peace in Ukraine. Lastly, Mr Christopher de Souza has asked about the efforts being made to allow negotiations to take place between Russia and Ukraine. While Singapore is not involved in the ongoing direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, we note that both sides have undertaken several rounds of negotiations since 28 February 2022. We hope that these talks will lead to a peaceful settlement in accordance with the UN Charter and international law. We will continue to work alongside the international community to support international law, a rules-based international order and a peaceful settlement of the conflict in Ukraine.”
“Specifically, we have imposed a ban on the transfer to Russia of all items in the Military Goods List and all items in the "Electronics", "Computers" and "Telecommunications and Information Security" categories of the Dual-Use Goods List of the Strategic Goods (Control) Order 2021. We have also imposed financial measures targeted at designated Russian banks, entities and activities in Russia, and fund-raising activities benefiting the Russian government. Further details can be found in MFA's Press Statement on Sanctions and Restrictions against Russia in Response to its Invasion of Ukraine dated 5 March 2022. Singapore has supported humanitarian assistance efforts, with the Singapore Government contributing US$100,000 to assist affected communities in Ukraine via the Singapore Red Cross, which is working through the Ukrainian Red Cross Society and International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. We co-sponsored and voted in favour of the UN General Assembly Emergency Special Session Resolution on “Humanitarian Consequences of the Aggression against Ukraine” which was adopted by a vote of 140 yeses, five noes and 38 abstentions on 24 March 2022. Mr Christopher de Souza has also asked about ASEAN's approach. ASEAN is deeply concerned about the unfolding crisis and worsening humanitarian conditions from Russia's unlawful invasion of Ukraine. The ASEAN Foreign Ministers have, thus far, issued two statements. First, on 26 February 2022, to call on all relevant parties to exercise maximum restraint, make utmost efforts to pursue dialogue, de-escalate tensions and seek peaceful resolution in accordance with international law and uphold the principles of mutual respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity and equal rights of all nations.”
“Mr Christopher de Souza has referred to various elements of international norms and laws and asked how Singapore intends to ensure that they are upheld. International law is essential but conventions and agreements can only achieve their intended objectives if the parties honour them and if they can be enforced. With respect to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, while the UN Security Council has the mandate under Article 51 of the UN Charter to take action as it deems necessary "in order to maintain or restore international peace and security", this is unlikely to be invoked, given Russia's veto power as a Permanent Member of the Security Council. Singapore has taken a clear, consistent and principled position on upholding international law and the principles enshrined in the UN Charter, as laid out in the Ministerial Statement in Parliament on 28 February 2022 on Russia's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. We co-sponsored and voted in favour of the UN General Assembly Emergency Special Session Resolution ES-11/1 on "Aggression against Ukraine" which was adopted by a vote of 141 yeses, five noes and 35 abstentions on 2 March 2022. While UN General Assembly resolutions are not legally binding, as a responsible member of the international community, Singapore has complied with the spirit and letter of the resolution. Given the unprecedented gravity of the Russian invasion and Russia's veto of the UN Security Council resolution, Singapore has further imposed sanctions aimed at constraining Russia's capacity to conduct war against Ukraine and undermine its sovereignty.”
“In this digital age, the spread of misinformation that sows fear, suspicion and discord in a population is a clear and present danger. All of us should exercise discretion and not share anything unless we are certain of its veracity. This responsibility to avoid disseminating misinformation applies, particularly, to public figures and opinion leaders. A Singaporean public that is well-informed, that recognises the geostrategic forces at play and understands our national interests, is essential for our defence against misinformation and disinformation campaigns. We encourage the public to verify information with official sources and apply a critical mind to what you read and share.”
“Singapore will continue to work with ASEAN to support efforts to bring peace, stability, the rule of law, promote harmony and reconciliation among the various communities, as well as to ensure sustainable and equitable development in the Rakhine State.”
“The situation in the Rakhine State remains dire. It is a long-standing, complex, intercommunal issue. The current political instability in Myanmar has further complicated the situation. There are reports of the resumption of conflict between the Myanmar military and armed groups in the Rakhine State, which have further diminished the prospect of the safe, voluntary and dignified return of refugees. Despite the challenges, ASEAN has pressed on with efforts to facilitate the safe, voluntary and dignified repatriation of refugees. Singapore has strongly supported these efforts. ASEAN's work has primarily focused on helping to improve ground conditions in the Rakhine State. The Preliminary Needs Assessment (PNA) and the ASEAN Secretariat's Ad-Hoc Support Team were established to monitor the implementation of the PNA. However, progress has stalled, given the current political instability in Myanmar, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, we are prepared to send further consignments of aid and stand ready to support future comprehensive needs assessments once repatriation commences so that we can be more targeted in helping the displaced persons. Additionally, Singapore has contributed over $1 million in bilateral humanitarian aid to both Bangladesh and Myanmar to meet the urgent humanitarian needs of displaced persons. There are ongoing community efforts to provide aid. We have also made contributions through the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Humanitarian Assistance on disaster management. Ultimately, peace and security in the Rakhine State require a comprehensive political solution that addresses the fundamental causes of the conflict, and which takes into account the concerns of all ethnic communities. There are no quick fixes.”
“I am not in a position to make specific announcements yet. So, we will do so in due time.”
“Mr Chairman, since MFA's establishment in 1965, our Mission has always been to uphold the independence and sovereignty of Singapore, to protect and advance the interests of Singaporeans, both at home and overseas. And we must thus continue to invest in this effort of diplomacy, even as the Government tackles all the immediate challenges of the day. Just as supply chains are moving from "Just-in-Time" to "Just-in-Case", for a small city-state like Singapore, we must always prepare for all possible scenarios. It is in our fundamental interest to ensure that our partners around the world have a stake in our continued peace and prosperity. We must never take our independence, sovereignty, peace and security for granted. I thank Members of Parliament for your continued support of MFA's work and for the wonderful, dedicated service of every single MFA officer. [Applause.]”
“Malaysia is our closest neighbour and bilateral engagements continued both formally and informally throughout this pandemic. Our Ministers have been communicating: WhatsApp, letters, phone calls, video calls. And most importantly, at times of greatest need, we are available for each other. And one thing which I want to cite is that we made sure our supply chains both ways never failed, even in the depths of the crisis. We were still able to facilitate the safe movement of goods, services and people. In fact, trade in goods and services increased in 2021. We collaborated closely with Malaysia to restore connectivity, launch Vaccinated Travel Lanes (VTLs) for both land and air travel on 29 November 2021 and helped restore some – I say "some", because it is still a very small fraction – of the pre-pandemic flow of tourists and business people. We have also helped to reunite families on both sides of the Causeway and I know we all look forward to expanding cross-border travel progressively and safely, and hopefully, at some point, back to pre-pandemic levels. On ASEAN, let me just quickly say that Mr Henry Kwek asked about the concerns with Myanmar. It is still a very dire situation. The ASEAN leaders had a meeting in April 2021 and arrived at the Five-Point Consensus. Unfortunately, there has been no significant progress at all. We will continue to work with the ASEAN Chair – Cambodia this year – as we did with Brunei last year, and, indeed, with our fellow ASEAN members to continue trying to promote, persuade, cajole, and reach a peaceful and durable resolution of the situation in Myanmar through the implementation of the Five-Point Consensus.”
“The Flight Information Region (FIR) Agreement will uphold the safety and efficiency of air traffic in our region in a manner that is consistent with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) rules and meet the civil aviation needs of both countries. The Defence Cooperation Agreement will strengthen cooperation between our two armed forces. It will provide clarity on the arrangements for the SAF's training in the Indonesian archipelagic and territorial waters and airspace, which is conducted with full respect for Indonesia's sovereignty, whilst preserving Singapore's rights under UNCLOS. The Extradition Treaty will enhance cooperation in combating crime and send a positive signal to investors. Both countries also exchanged letters to undertake that all these agreements will enter into force simultaneously. This set of mutually beneficial and durable agreements shows the strength and maturity of our bilateral relationship. It illustrates our commitment to resolving longstanding bilateral matters in an open and constructive manner for the long-term benefit of our peoples. Prime Minister Lee and President Joko Widodo both expressed the desire to ratify and bring these agreements into force soon. Prime Minister Lee and President Joko Widodo also had good discussions on new areas of collaboration, including green economy, renewable energy, human capital development. And we look forward to making progress on all these fronts. The key point is that we can steadily resolve all issues and we can open up new areas with win-win outcomes. Mr Chong Kee Hiong asked about Malaysia. For Malaysia, I want to tell you that we have maintained our very close relationship. And I would say, it has probably even been strengthened by our shared experience of COVID-19.”
“And amidst all the oceans-related challenges today, we continue to affirm the primacy and the universality of UNCLOS, which sets out the legal framework for all activities in the oceans. And notwithstanding our small size, our pioneers, including Ambassador-at-Large professor Prof Tommy Koh, played again an outsized role and helped to bring UNCLOS to fruition 40 years ago. So, we continue to play a constructive role in oceans-related issues and right now, Ambassador Rena Lee has been the President of the Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction Intergovernmental Conference since 2018. Most people may not be aware of this, but this is another offshoot of UNCLOS. Fourth, peace and stability in our immediate neighbourhood are absolutely critical. Our relations with our closest neighbours, Indonesia and Malaysia, will always be of special importance. Miss Rachel Ong asked about the outcomes of the Singapore-Indonesia Leaders' Retreat in January and how this would affect the trajectory of our bilateral relations. 1.30 pm I think you all know that Singapore and Indonesia are close partners. We enjoy a substantive and multifaceted relationship. The Leaders' Retreat held in January marked a significant milestone in our bilateral relations and Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean delivered a Ministerial Statement last month explaining the significance of the agreements that Singapore and Indonesia signed to address longstanding bilateral issues, namely, the Flight Information Region, the defence cooperation and the extradition of fugitives.”
“Basically, an opportunity for us to work together, address the challenges, the opportunities, deal with the dangers, establish common standards, norms, rules and, ultimately, hopefully, norms for state behaviours. And this is the way, in a sense, we have to protect the global commons, public health, the oceans, the environment, cyberspace, outer space. Actually, Singapore has a history of outsized contributions in protecting the global commons. For instance, in cybersecurity, which is a clear and present threat right now, we clearly need to work with the international community towards arriving at a global consensus, including through the creation of a multilateral architecture in cyberspace. We are members of both the United Nations Open-Ended Working Group on Cybersecurity – in fact, this is chaired by Singapore – and the UN Group of Government Experts on Cybersecurity to foster understanding and collaboration on the development of new governance principles, frameworks and standards. Climate change, we all know, is an existential threat to mankind and as a small city-state, we are exquisitely vulnerable to the impact of climate change. Encouraging progress was made at the most recent 26th Conference of the Parties, and I am sure Minister Grace Fu will explain. But in case she is too humble, let me say that she and her team have continued this tradition of being excellent ministerial facilitators, being honest brokers and arriving at consensus and making progress for the world. Similarly, this year, I should also add, marks the 40th anniversary of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.”
“The rise of protectionism amidst COVID-19 has also underscored the importance of: one, upholding a free, open and rules-based multilateral trading system, as embodied by the WTO; second, deepening economic integration at multilateral fora, such as APEC and G20; third, diversifying trade relations through regional arrangements, such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and our latest free trade agreement, the Pacific Alliance-Singapore Free Trade Agreement. These regional agreements facilitate more efficient, more diversified and resilient supply chains. They increase access to global markets, encourage rules-based trading activity and foster greater connectivity. Even in Singapore, as we face pushback from some people against economic integration, it is important to redouble and reaffirm that this is an essential pillar for our economic strategy. Third, let me deal with our international work on the global commons and non-traditional security challenges that have been raised. Countries are grappling with geopolitical flashpoints, insularism and major power politics. Mr Seah Kian Peng reminded us and asked about Singapore's approach to these emerging issues at multilateral fora. Well, there is certainly no shortage of emerging non-traditional issues. The ones which often come to mind are climate change, food security, emerging diseases, the challenges and problems of the digital economy and the threats in cyberspace and, eventually, and, in fact, emerging, outer space as well. Again, our approach is that we believe in multilateralism and that these issues should best be pursued at multilateral fora, including the United Nations, APEC, G20 and ASEAN.”
“With global economic integration and the expansion of cross-border capital and trade flows over the last century, the fortunes of all countries and all peoples are now increasingly interdependent. Small states like Singapore value a system, where sovereign states, regardless of size, have equal rights and disputes can be settled peacefully in accordance with international law and agreed rules, and not to be subject to the rules of the jungle where might is right or to be forced to make invidious choices between big powers. In fact, multilateralism and economic integration have been a formula for peace and prosperity for many decades since the end of the last (Second) World War, and especially critical for small states like us. You notice I said "last" World War. I am betraying my anxieties. We have spared no effort to strengthen the rules-based multilateral order so that it continues to provide us with a platform to safeguard our interests. And that is why we worked with a cross-regional group of countries to establish the Forum of Small States, which, in fact, celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. In today's charged geopolitical context, it is even more important that small states continue to stand up for a stronger United Nations and a robust multilateral system that levels the playing fields, takes all countries' interests into account.”
“To this end, we will also work with all parties to uphold an open, inclusive, stable, peaceful, rules-based international order. There were questions just now about the TPP and the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework by Mr Dennis Tan. Quite frankly, I have told my American interlocutors on numerous occasions, it was a mistake for the US to pull out of the TPP. It is still the highest level and most ambitious Free Trade Agreement with safeguards not only for trade, labour, the environment, intellectual property; and the rest of it. But all my interlocutors in America have said they cannot do it because of domestic political reasons. In a sense, the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework is an alternative which they are trying to put beef on this framework. Let us see and let us encourage them. But as I have said, the key point I keep making and, in fact, the Prime Minister has made to multiple Presidents in Asia, trade is strategy. So, let us watch how progress is made on this front. And it is also no accident that now you have got the UK, China and Taiwan applying to join the CPTPP. Mr Liang Eng Hwa asked why Singapore continues to place such heavy emphasis on multilateralism, given that powerful states are often perceived to wield outsized influence at multinational platforms, and he asked whether we should just focus on bilateral and regional arrangements. Ms Janet Ang asked how Singapore's foreign policy can remain independent while balancing and advancing our own national interests, as opposed to, and she even asked why should we be our brother's keeper. Well, let me address these thematically.”
“President Biden will be hosting an ASEAN-US Summit in Washington later this month. We have also maintained intensive engagements with our Chinese counterparts, including through mutual support when we both needed it during COVID-19 at its worst moments, as well as bilateral cooperation and at the Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation meeting co-chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat in December last year. Since 2020 – and I double-checked this number – I have met or spoken with my counterpart, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi, on nine occasions. So, that is about once every three months. And our most recent engagement was in Beijing last month, when I accompanied President Halimah Yacob to the opening ceremony of the Beijing Winter Olympics. And there is a standing invitation for President Halimah to make a formal State Visit to China. It is in Singapore's interest to continue to foster stronger ties with both the US and China and to be a consistent and reliable partner to both for the long term. We will continue to engage both powers through diplomacy grounded in fundamental principles, such as adherence to international law, the resolution of disputes by peaceful means, respect for sovereignty, the sanctity of borders and upholding a rules-based multilateral system. However, we make decisions based on our long-term national interests and we make it clear to both that we will not be a proxy vassal state or a cat's paw for one side or the other. And we have not shied away from standing up for ourselves and disagreeing on issues when necessary. And we do not have the luxury of saying different things to different partners. So, Singapore strives to be straightforward, consistent, reliable, trustworthy.”
“Otherwise, it will be very difficult for them to cooperate constructively, even where their interests are aligned. How the US and China compete and cooperate will determine not just their trajectories, but that of the rest of the world. It would be disastrous for both powers to focus on what they call "extreme competition", or even outright confrontation. And the old Cold War strategy of containment will not be viable. We, therefore, welcome efforts by both the US and China to engage at the highest levels to cooperate on global challenges like climate change and the digital age, and we encourage greater people-to-people engagement as travel restrictions are removed in order to foster generations, especially younger people in both the United States and China, to understand and to appreciate each other's values, attitudes, strengths and weaknesses. We hope that these interactions will encourage greater trust and pave the way forward for a more constructive relationship. As the former Secretary of State George Shultz wisely observed, he said – and this is worth remembering – "Trust is the coin of the realm. When trust was in the room, good things happened. When trust was not in the room, good things did not happen. Everything else is details." On Singapore's part, we enjoy excellent ties and, in fact, I may add, high levels of trust with both the US and China. And we have been able to maintain high-level interactions even amidst COVID-19 over the past two years. In 2021 alone, we welcomed visits by US Vice President Kamala Harris, Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin, Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. I also made a working visit to Washington where I met with my counterpart, Secretary of State Antony Blinken.”
“Under President Biden, US foreign policy has become, in a sense, more predictable. However, its fundamental approach and the policies of the US towards China have basically remained unchanged. In fact, the sanctions against Chinese entities have not been relaxed but have become even tougher. Both political parties in America as well as the business community and even society at large have come to, generally, view China as a direct threat to the United States' interests. This is compounded by the fact that the US has never, in its history, faced a peer competitor on such a scale. 1.15 pm On China's part, there is a growing perception that the US is a declining power reacting defensively and aggressively to China's inevitable growth and progress. China is promoting its own constructs to broaden and deepen its relations with other countries in the world through international schemes, such as the Belt and Road Initiative, and more recently, the Global Development Initiative. However, China will want to avoid being seen to be pressured into making concessions in its policies or posture, out of a concern that any concession on its part will only lead to continued or even increased pressure from other countries. US and China's relationship is fraught with many spiky issues and this is complicated by domestic considerations, and the distrust, the rivalry have intensified over the past few years. Trade and economic issues can be negotiated and compromises found. However, disagreements cast in moralistic or ideological terms on issues like human rights or political systems quickly lead to deadlocks where no compromise is possible. We hope both countries will accept that there is a need to reset their postures, to work out a new modus vivendi, and to reduce zero-sum competition.”
“Mr Vikram Nair, Mr Lim Biow Chuan, Mr Eric Chua, Ms Janet Ang and Mr Baey Yam Keng have all asked very salient questions about multilateralism, about the world order and about big power rivalry. In my Ministerial Statement on 28 February, I explained why we have to be such a staunch supporter of international law and the principles enshrined in the UN Charter. We must take a stand against actions that clearly violate the sovereignty, political independence and territorial integrity of another country, of all countries, because, ultimately, this is also about us, as a tiny city state. When push comes to shove, smaller countries like Singapore must be prepared to defend ourselves and not get caught up in the geopolitical games of big powers. We do not take sides. But we do take a stand to uphold existential principles. We make common cause with our neighbours and our friends, within ASEAN and in the UN General Assembly to the maximum extent possible. So, for instance, last night, there was an overwhelming vote – 141 countries at the UN General Assembly voted in favour of the resolution. In ASEAN, all our Ministers, I can tell you, were up until 1.00 am to 2.00 am last night communicating and we will shortly be issuing an ASEAN statement calling for an immediate ceasefire. We continue to try to get humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and, of course, we continue to monitor the evacuation of Singaporeans in Ukraine. We have got another further three out, and there are still six left there. Let me say a few words about the strategic competition between the US and China. This has intensified across multiple domains and, quite frankly, the strategic choices of both these countries will shape the emerging international order profoundly.”
“We also responded quickly to urgent medical needs by sending medical supplies, including more than 500 tonnes of liquid oxygen to Indonesia through our "Oxygen Shuttle" programme and 120,000 vaccine doses to Batam and the Riau Islands, as well as 100,000 and 200,000 vaccine doses to Malaysia and Brunei respectively. We also sent a consignment of 256 oxygen cylinders to support India's pandemic response at the height of its second wave last April. I wish to commend the dedication of all MFA staff, both those serving in Singapore as well as in our Overseas Missions. Over 300 MFA officers have served Singapore at our Overseas Missions during this period and I am very proud that not a single officer has asked to leave their posts because of the risk of the pandemic. Despite our best efforts and health precautions, about 40 of our officers serving overseas as well as another 150 foreigners who are employed by our Missions overseas did succumb to COVID-19. Fortunately, they have recovered. But again, it is a symbol of their commitment and their willingness to sacrifice for the sake of Singapore and Singaporeans. We owe them a big debt of gratitude. COVID-19 will not be the last or even the worst pandemic faced by the world. So, we will continue to work with the international community, including and especially through the WHO, in order to strengthen the global health architecture and to enhance pandemic preparedness and resilience and the ability to cooperate as a single world. Let me move on to the next aspect – major power rivalry, fostering peace, upholding international law and multilateralism. The ongoing developments in Ukraine are a stark reminder of the vulnerability of small states when confronted by a larger and more powerful opponent.”
“Mr Chairman, it has been a very busy year. As always, we are trying to secure our place in a very volatile and, I would say, dangerous world. The key issues confronting us are: first, COVID-19 and its aftermath; second, navigating major power rivalry, fostering peace, upholding international law, strengthening multilateralism; third, protecting the global commons, including addressing non-traditional challenges; fourth, nurturing Singapore's relations with our neighbours; and fifth, ASEAN. First, let me deal with COVID-19 because Mr Vikram Nair, Mr Desmond Choo and Mr Lim Biow Chuan have asked how COVID-19 has affected our foreign policy. The pandemic has impacted – in fact, disrupted – the lives of many overseas Singaporeans. MFA's duty in the last two years has been to make sure that we left no Singaporean behind. I say that again, we left no Singaporean behind. We have helped to bring home more than 4,600 Singaporeans who had difficulty getting back for some reason or the another in the last two years. MFA also supported the launch of Vaccinated Travel Lanes (VTLs) and the mutual recognition of health certificates in order to facilitate the safe resumption of international travel. Singapore has also supported global COVID-19 vaccination – because no one is safe until everyone is safe in the world. We have contributed to the COVAX Advance Market Commitment and the COVID-19 ASEAN Response Fund. I would add that we donated our entitlements to our neighbours.”
“Mr Speaker, we have spent quite a lot of time already on this subject. And as I have said, we are working through the details. So, I do not want to run ahead and I do not want to engage in speculation but to just make the point that we have no quarrel with the Russian people. I think the Member was indirectly alluding to the project that we have on the Russian Orthodox Church building and I would imagine that this is a project which, in my own view, should continue because this goes beyond the politics and the conflict which is going on right now. 12.49 pm”
“The Member's point is that this is a dangerous time and we all need to be concerned.”
“Mr Speaker, I am the Foreign Minister of Singapore and I would hesitate to speculate as to what China's full position and actions will be. But I can make the following observations. China abstained at the vote on the resolution that was presented to the United Nations Security Council. The second point is that China has expressed some solidarity, at least more so in recent times, and some sympathy for Russian concerns. My third observation is that I believe China does hold firmly to the principle of independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. Beyond that, I do not wish to speculate but I do want to assure the Member that we have been, as always, in constant contact with my Chinese counterpart. In fact, President Halimah and I were in Beijing, I think just three weeks ago. I am not even sure that the Olympic truce has expired yet and I will not be able to reveal details. But we, certainly, had an opportunity to listen to the leadership of China's views on unfolding events. But that was three weeks ago, before the hot conflict emerged. I do not want to speculate into the Member's second question about the impact of elevation of the nuclear alert. There are nuclear powers in the world. And every time a nuclear power gets into a hot war, we need to be very, very concerned. Beyond that, I do not wish to speculate except, again, to express our hope that there is so much more to lose from letting the situation get out of control. So, our hope is that restraint will apply, there will be an immediate cessation of hostilities and violence. I believe there had been some arrangements for negotiations to occur between Ukraine and Russia at the border with Belarus, perhaps today or maybe even as we speak. I hope those negotiations will bear some fruit.”
“Thank you. The short answer to that is yes, all the foreign ministers and our officials have been in intensive contact over the last few days. As I have said, we recently – in fact, I think just a day ago – issued an ASEAN common statement. I will be frank and tell you that the 10 of us will have a variety of views, but I am glad that we were able to issue a consensus statement that reaffirmed mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. I also hope that there will be cooperation on humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and, as I said earlier, also cooperation on helping each other's citizens emerge safely from a conflict situation.”
“That is actually three questions. I do not have the figures on Ukrainians who are currently in Singapore and the passes that they are on. This is something which ICA and MHA would look at and I am not in a position to give any blanket assurances on that. I think I will also have to reiterate our long-held position that we cannot take refugees because we are one of the most dense cities or states in the world. Nevertheless, we will look at it case-by-case, depending on the merits of the particular situation. On channels, my advice would be to support the Singapore Red Cross. I think that is clear, reputable and safe. The Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies were created precisely to have a role in such conflict situations. So, I would encourage people who are minded to provide humanitarian assistance to work through the Red Cross. On the third question about the foreign legion, again, I will have to come back to principle. Singapore does not take sides. Singapore does not allow the import of foreign politics into Singapore's domestic environment. Similarly, Singapore cannot support the promotion or organisation of armed groups, whatever their justification, into other countries. Our long-standing rules and regulatory system must continue to apply. Singapore Citizens, your duty is to Singapore, to fight and die if need be, to defend our national interests and to take a long-term view of what our national interests are. So, I will leave it at that.”
“As I said, standing up for principle is not cost-free. So, we also have to be prepared for that. But, if the world continues to watch with folded arms, we are headed into a much more dangerous world. After the end of the Second World War in 1945 and the establishment of the European Union, I think many people thought war on the European Continent was unthinkable. Clearly, that rosy view is wrong, and you are watching, again, war on European soil in an advanced beautiful capital today. The point is if norms are not complied with and if borders can be trifled with, on the basis of all kinds of justifications and sometimes even pretext, then it will be a much more dangerous world, and especially for us. So, bear in mind that, actually, we are taking a stand not just for this particular crisis, but we are taking a stand for our long-term survival, prosperity and peace.”
“I thank Mr Zhulkarnain for both questions. He is right; the virus and violence are a perfect recipe of humanitarian disaster, which is occurring right now. I explained earlier in my statement that the Singapore Red Cross has contributed US$100,000. The Singapore Government will also contribute to that and I am sure members of the public will also be generous. And we will work through the Ukrainian Red Cross, the International Society of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. At the ASEAN level, ASEAN has taken a stand that there needs to be mutual respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty. I hope there will be a humanitarian impulse from ASEAN as well. Specifically, for the citizens of ASEAN who may be stranded. I just want to share one little anecdote which also illustrates the point. I said that three Singaporeans managed to cross the border in a perilous time. I can say that at least one did so in a convoy together with Malaysian citizens who were crossing the border into Poland. And I thank my counterpart in Malaysia for that. Similarly, on the ground, I am sure we will continue to work with each other, look out for citizens of ASEAN and where possible, "tumpang", "gotong royong" and help one another. I think these are teachable moments, good opportunities for ASEAN to demonstrate value and solidarity with each other where it matters. The second question on what are the implications of this crisis? Well, as I said, there are multiple. First off, we already feel the economic impact and Minister Gan will be dealing with this later today. The abrogation of international law and norms is a clear and present danger especially for small states like us and that is why we have had to take such a principled stand.”
“I thank Mr Nair for his questions. It is always difficult to restrain big powers or emerging big powers, who will always give precedence to their national interests defined on their terms. So, let us have no illusions about this. For what it is worth, having international law, having avenues of peaceful resolution on disputes, having the United Nations with its Charter, having instruments like the Security Council and the General Assembly, capable of establishing norms, capable, sometimes – assuming there is no veto – of arriving at Security Council resolutions, is valuable. As I have said, that is why we are such staunch supporters of international law and the United Nations. We have to be, because the alternative is "might is right" or the strong do what they can and the weak suffer what they must. But, my point is that you cannot rely on that alone. Every country, big or small, has to have the capability and the resolve to defend itself, then to make common cause on the basis of principle with other like-minded countries. And for what it is worth, try to establish norms of state behaviour. But human history is replete with conflicts, conflicts which when you look back in hindsight make no sense, brought far more harm than any objective that was sought at the beginning, or simply miscalculations. So, again, I am making the point that for what it is worth, we uphold principles, we do not take sides. And that is the formula to preserve our future security and prosperity.”
“I will not speculate where other clashes will erupt around the world except to tell you – and I am sure you are also aware as a former diplomat yourself – that we are not short of hotspots in the world. Again, I will bring us back to this fundamental point that we talked about – deterrence. For deterrence to work, first, we ourselves must have the capability to defend ourselves. Nobody else will shed blood on our account. Secondly, having the capability – the arms, the ORBAT and all the funding that this Parliament provides to MINDEF – capability without resolve, without, as I said earlier, that iron determination to fight and die, to defend and protect what is ours and our way of life, without both capability and resolve, it would not deter anyone. And there is one additional dimension: that your partner or your protagonist on the other side must also have arrived at that same conclusion – that you have both the capability and resolve to defend. That is how you secure peace in a dangerous world. In the larger point I am making, is that, yes, we are standing on principle, and yes, we may even have to pay a price, but this is a price worth paying for the future existence, independence and prosperity of Singapore.”
“Mr Speaker, I thank Mr Giam for his salient questions. We do have excellent relations with the US, with the EU, with Russia. And of course, we have diplomatic relations with Ukraine as well. The Member's questions on balance, I would address by bringing us back to first principles: that we do not take sides, we uphold principles. And in this case, the principles at stake are independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. And I explained just now that Singapore's foreign policy is consistent, is coherent. In fact, it is almost always predictable. And I can tell you now, from experience, from the past six to seven years with the privilege of representing Singapore on stage, is that big powers and our neighbours and middle powers have also gotten used to the fact that it is not personal, it is professional, it is principled. We take a position based on these principles which we believe to be essential for our long-term national interest. And I can also tell you, although there is no time to go through all the details now, that even in my tenure over the past six or seven years, I have had to say no, on occasion, to every single superpower. But it has not stopped us from being able to sit at the table, look at each other's eyes, shake hands, explain where we defer, why we defer and at the same time, to pursue areas of cooperation where our interests align and where our principles are shared. So, this is not new, this is not a new posture. This in fact, is a posture that we have adopted for every single year since we have been independent. And I am maintaining that tradition. The second question: are the events in far away Ukraine possibly a model and inspiration or an invitation for similar incursions elsewhere?”
“MFA has been in contact with them, and we will assist them wherever and however possible. We are also exploring options for them to leave the country if the situation permits. In the meantime, Singaporeans who are in Ukraine are advised to seek shelter in place, be vigilant and to heed the advice from the authorities. Those who have not yet e-registered with MFA should do so immediately. Mr Speaker, this is a time for us to come together and to stand up for principles, uphold principles which are core to our survival, our existence as an independent, sovereign nation. [Applause.]”
“The specific measures are being worked out and will be announced shortly. We must expect that our measures will come at some cost and implications on our businesses, citizens and indeed to Singapore. However, unless we as a country stand up for principles that are the very foundation for the independence and sovereignty of smaller nations, our own right to exist and prosper as a nation may similarly be called into question one day. I note that Dr Lim Wee Kiak1 and Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim2 have filed Parliamentary Questions on the current situation in Ukraine, especially on the steps taken by MFA to help Singaporeans in Ukraine. I would be happy to address their concerns in a clarification after this and if the concerns are sufficiently addressed, they can consider withdrawing the subsequent Parliamentray Questions and save time. Mr Speaker, in the lead-up to Russia's military operation into Ukraine on 24 February 2022, MFA had issued two Travel Advisories on the situation in Ukraine on 26 January and 13 February respectively. We advised Singaporeans in Ukraine to leave as soon as possible via commercial means while it was still possible to do so at that point in time. Singaporeans in Ukraine were also urged to e-register with MFA, so that we could render consular assistance to them. Following our first Travel Advisory, seven Singaporeans left Ukraine via commercial options before the conflict erupted. Since the launch of the Russian invasion, another three Singaporeans have left Ukraine and made their way across the border into Poland. We are still in touch with eight Singaporeans currently in Ukraine who are spread across several cities. We are aware of at least one other person whom we are still trying to contact. Singaporeans' safety remains our priority concern.”
“We will continue to work with our ASEAN and international partners to take a strong stance against the invasion of Ukraine, and to end further violence and bloodshed, and to de-escalate tensions. We also participate actively at the United Nations. Three days ago, a draft resolution was presented at the UN Security Council (UNSC) to condemn Russia's aggression against Ukraine. Singapore was one of 82 co-sponsors of this Security Council resolution. As expected, Russia, as a Permanent Member of the Security Council, vetoed that resolution. So, the resolution was not passed even though 11 of the 15 Security Council members voted in support and the remaining three members – China, India and the UAE – abstained. The UN General Assembly (UNGA) will be debating a similar resolution later today. General Assembly resolutions are not subject to a veto, but neither are they binding. However, as a responsible member of the international community, Singapore will comply with the spirit and the letter of the UN General Assembly's decision. Singapore has always complied fully with sanctions and decisions of the UNSC, but we have rarely acted to impose sanctions on other countries in the absence of binding Security Council decisions or directions. However, given the unprecedented gravity of the Russian attack on Ukraine and the unsurprising veto by Russia of a draft UNSC resolution, Singapore intends to act in concert with many other like-minded countries to impose appropriate sanctions and restrictions against Russia. In particular, we will impose export controls on items that can be used directly as weapons in Ukraine to inflict harm or to subjugate the Ukrainians. We will also block certain Russian banks and financial transactions connected to Russia.”
“Instead of choosing sides, we uphold principles. Consequently, we conduct our foreign policy in a coherent and consistent manner. We also become reliable partners for those who operate on the same principles. However, there will occasions when we will have to take a stand, even if it is contrary to one or more powers on the basis of principles – as we are doing now. Third, as a young nation, it is vital for us to maintain domestic unity and cohesion, bearing in mind how easily internal divisions can be exploited by adversaries, especially in this Internet age and the advent of hybrid warfare. Dividing and weakening an opponent internally, overtly and covertly, has become a standard complement to conventional warfare. Therefore, our domestic politics must stop at our shores. And I thank all Members of Parliament for adhering to this precept. And I would share that I have also shared this point with the Leader of the Opposition, Mr Pritam Singh. Fourth, safeguarding one's sovereignty and national interests often requires some sacrifice and pain. The Ukrainians are paying the ultimate price for freedom with their lives and livelihoods. The rest of the international community that is taking a stand against naked aggression through sanctions will also have to bear some pain and pay a price. Singaporeans too must understand that standing up for our national interests may come with some cost. We must be prepared to deal with the consequences, to bear the pain, to help one another and to stand up together. We continue to value our good relations with Russia and the Russian people. However, we cannot accept such violations of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of another sovereign country.”
“But agreements are only meaningful if the parties respect them and if they can be enforced. The invasion of Ukraine demonstrates how quickly a vulnerable country can be overrun, especially when confronting a larger and more powerful opponent. This is the acute reality for all small countries and Singapore is no exception. Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in 1990 are stark reminders of this. You cannot depend on others to protect your country. Thus, we must never lose the ability to defend and look after ourselves. And this is why Singapore has invested consistently to build up a credible and strong SAF and to maintain National Service as a fundamental element of our nationhood. The capability of the SAF must be undergirded by Singaporeans' resolve – the iron determination of our people to fight and die, if need be, to defend what is ours and our way of life. Without such capability and resolve, no amount of diplomacy can save a country. Second, it is all too easy for a small country to be caught up in the geopolitical games of big powers. Small countries must avoid becoming sacrificial pawns, vassal states or "cat's paws" to be used by one side against the other. In a speech delivered in 1973, former Prime Minister Mr Lee Kuan Yew had shared his agreement with Julius Nyerere, the then-President of Tanzania, who had said, "When elephants fight, the grass suffers". This is why we work hard to maintain good relations with all our neighbours and with the big powers. When situations arise, our assessments and actions are based on clearly enunciated and consistently held principles that are in our own long-term national interests. Instead of choosing sides, we uphold principles. This is worth repeating.”
“The sovereignty, political independence and the territorial integrity of all countries, big and small, must be respected. Singapore must take any violation of these core principles seriously, whenever and wherever they occur. And this is why Singapore has strongly condemned Russia's unprovoked attack on Ukraine. It is heartbreaking to see the heavy casualties and loss of many innocent lives, resulting from this unjustified attack and act of war. We strongly urge Russia to cease this offensive military action immediately and to work for a peaceful settlement in accordance with the UN Charter and international law. We also call for safe and unhindered access for humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and all those in need. Singapore is doing our part. The Singapore Red Cross has pledged a contribution of US$100,000 to support communities affected by the current crisis, in cooperation with the Ukrainian Red Cross Society and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. This will provide essential relief supplies, such as hygiene kits, family kits and household kits for the vulnerable who have been displaced by the conflict. In addition, the Singapore Red Cross has launched a public fundraising appeal to support the impending massive humanitarian operations that will be needed. The Government will also contribute US$100,000 to this humanitarian operation through the Singapore Red Cross. Mr Speaker, there are important lessons for us to draw from the current Ukrainian crisis. First, whilst international law and diplomatic principles are essential, they are not sufficient. The Budapest Memorandum was supposed to guarantee Ukraine's security by three nuclear powers – Russia, the US and the UK.”
“On 24 February 2022, Russia announced the start of a "special military operation" in Ukraine. This was followed shortly by air, land and sea attacks on multiple targets across the whole of Ukraine. Russian ground forces, including armoured formations, rapidly entered Ukraine from the north, the south and the east, and have reached the capital Kyiv. While Ukraine is far away from us, we are following the crisis with grave concern. Its economic effects can already be felt here, for example, in rising electricity and petrol prices. Minister Gan Kim Yong will address the economic issues later today. But these are not the principal reason the situation in Ukraine is important to us. The events in Ukraine go to the heart of the fundamental norms of international law and the UN Charter that prohibit the use of force and acts of aggression against another sovereign state. Russia's invasion of Ukraine is a clear and gross violation of the international norms and a completely unacceptable precedent. This is an existential issue for us. Ukraine is much smaller than Russia, but it is much bigger than Singapore. A world order based on "might is right", or where "the strong do what they can and the weak suffer what they must", such a world order would be profoundly inimical to the security and survival of small states. We cannot accept one country attacking another without justification, arguing that its independence was the result of "historical errors and crazy decisions". Such a rationale would go against the internationally recognised legitimacy and territorial integrity of many countries, including Singapore. That is why we are a staunch supporter of international law, and the principles enshrined in the UN Charter.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, we are witnessing an unprovoked military invasion of a sovereign state as we speak. Ukraine is a large country with a multilingual and multi-religious population of approximately 44 million people. It has a long history, with complex relations with Russia and other states in the region. Ukraine became independent in 1991, with the collapse of the Soviet Union. Shortly thereafter in 1994, Ukraine was persuaded to give up its nuclear arsenal, at that time the third largest in the world, by signing on to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. In return, Russia, the US and the UK, via the Budapest Memorandum on Security Assurances, "reaffirmed their obligation to refrain from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of Ukraine, and that none of their weapons will ever be used against Ukraine except in self-defence or otherwise in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations (UN)" – words which perhaps ring quite hollow today. Since then, the Ukraine has faced considerable domestic political turmoil, exacerbated by the separatist movements and tensions with Russia. Twenty years after the Budapest Memorandum, Russia annexed Crimea in 2014 whilst the world watched. Conflicts on the ground in Donbas have continued for the past eight years, with episodic limited ceasefires. And beginning in spring 2021, Russia massed over 100,000 troops at its borders with Ukraine. In January 2022, cyberattacks were launched against the Ukrainian government websites. On 21 February 2022, Russia recognised two breakaway Ukrainian regions and announced that Russian troops would start performing what it called "peacekeeping operations".”
“Singapore also works through the ASEAN Drug Monitoring Network, ASEAN Airport Interdiction Taskforce and ASEAN Seaport Interdiction Taskforce to engage other ASEAN Member States, in order to maintain a consistent exchange of information and continue capability building efforts within ASEAN.”
“According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, there has been a surge in narcotics production in Myanmar and drug trafficking over the past year due to the increased instability since the 1 February military coup. There have been reports of an increase in the seizures of illicit drugs produced in Myanmar. Despite the developments in Myanmar, Singapore remains committed to assist Myanmar in a constructive manner and ensure ASEAN continues to function smoothly and make progress on its agenda. This means ensuring that the day-to-day cooperation in various sectoral bodies is not impeded, including ASEAN's efforts to combat the spread of illicit drugs in the region. ASEAN's vision is to achieve a "Drug-Free ASEAN" by addressing illicit drug activities and mitigating their negative consequences to society, through reducing illicit crop cultivation, illicit manufacture and trafficking of drugs, and illicit drug use. As part of the efforts to prevent illicit drugs from being trafficked out of the Golden Triangle, ASEAN has developed the ASEAN Cooperation Plan to Tackle Illicit Drug Production and Trafficking in the Golden Triangle (2020 – 2022). The plan seeks to enhance the sharing of information via the ASEAN Drug Monitoring Network and the Safe Mekong Coordination Centre (SMCC), which led to a timely and effective interception and interdiction of illicit drug smuggling activities in the region. Singapore participates actively in ASEAN meetings that aim to address the regional drug problem, including the 7th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Drug Matters (AMMD) in October 2021.”