During his visit to Lisbon, Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, Singapore’s Foreign Minister, highlighted Singapore’s diplomatic strategies and global perspectives at the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Annual Diplomatic Seminar.
On January 4, 2024, Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, addressed a gathering at the Annual Diplomatic Seminar hosted by the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Lisbon. Addressing his counterpart, His Excellency João Gomes Cravinho, and an audience of diplomats and officials, Dr. Balakrishnan underscored Singapore’s unique approach to foreign affairs, shaped by its geographical and historical realities.
As a young nation of 59 years, Singapore’s diplomatic stance has been heavily influenced by its lack of natural resources, diverse population, and geopolitical vulnerabilities. Balakrishnan credited Singapore’s success to several factors, including a hardworking population, a unique tripartite relationship between government, trade unions, and employers, first-world infrastructure, the rule of law, and early globalization. These elements have propelled Singapore from a per capita GDP of 500 US dollars at independence to approximately 70,000 US dollars today.
Highlighting Singapore’s commitment to multilateralism and international law, Balakrishnan emphasized the country’s active role in the United Nations and contributions to global discussions on various fronts, including cybersecurity, AI, and climate change. He also discussed the complex geopolitical landscape of 2023, marked by inflation, economic challenges, and regional conflicts, including the Russian invasion of Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East.
The Minister also delved into Singapore’s foreign policy, which rests on economic success, political unity, upholding international law, and consistent global positioning. He discussed Singapore’s bilateral relations with Portugal, noting common perspectives and growing economic ties, particularly in sectors like renewable energy and shipping.
In a dialogue with Portuguese diplomats, Balakrishnan further explored global issues, including the role of small countries in international affairs and the importance of modernizing post-World War II institutions to reflect current realities.
Source – MFA
