During the Committee of Supply Debates, Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan emphasized the critical need for domestic unity, pragmatic foreign policy, and the challenges of a fragmented global landscape.
On 29 February 2024, Singapore’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, addressed the Committee of Supply Debates, highlighting the importance of consensus among Parliament members across the political spectrum, and the role of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in maintaining Singapore as a low-cost ministry. Dr. Balakrishnan underscored the increasing dangers in global affairs, including escalating tensions between major powers, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, climate change, and the impact of generative AI on economies. He emphasized that Singapore’s foreign policy must stem from a realistic assessment of national interests and vulnerabilities, advocating for a rules-based international order and the need for Singapore to stand firm on its principles despite external pressures.
Singapore’s foreign policy, as Dr. Balakrishnan outlined, rests on protecting the nation’s sovereignty, securing essential supplies, and maintaining economic relevance. He stressed the importance of international cooperation and Singapore’s role as a credible, honest broker on the world stage. The Minister also touched upon the significance of domestic unity for effective foreign policy, noting the potential of external issues to test Singapore’s social cohesion.
The speech also addressed the Israel-Hamas conflict, reinforcing Singapore’s stance on terrorism and the necessity of adhering to international humanitarian law. Dr. Balakrishnan highlighted Singapore’s humanitarian contributions to Gaza and reiterated the country’s commitment to a two-state solution as the path to enduring peace in the Middle East.
Source – MFA
