Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan’s call on Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Dr Mohammad Shtayyeh in Ramallah, 18 March 2024
Photo Credit: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore

Singapore’s Foreign Minister Addresses Humanitarian Concerns and Peace Efforts in Gaza

On 18 March 2024, Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, conducted a significant working visit to the Palestinian Territories, engaging in pivotal discussions with leading Palestinian figures, including the Palestinian Authority (PA) Prime Minister Dr Mohammad Shtayyeh, Prime Minister-designate Dr Mohammad Mustafa, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Dr Riad Al Malki, and the Head of General Intelligence Services Majed Faraj in Ramallah.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan with Non-Resident Representative to the Palestinian Authority Mr Hawazi Daipi and Members of Parliament Mr Alex Yam, Mr Gerald Giam, Ms Nadia Ahmad Samdin, Ms Rachel Ong, and Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim during call on Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Dr Mohammad Shtayyeh in Ramallah, 18 March 2024
Photo Credit: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore

During his meetings, Minister Balakrishnan highlighted Singapore’s grave concerns regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, advocating for an immediate ceasefire to facilitate the delivery of necessary aid to the civilians impacted. He detailed Singapore’s contributions to humanitarian efforts in Gaza, notably mentioning the recent tranche of assistance delivered via Jordan and a significant donation made by the Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation to support Palestinian refugees through the United Nations Relief and Works Agency.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan’s call on Palestinian Authority Prime Minister-designate Dr Mohammad Mustafa in Ramallah, 18 March 2024
Photo Credit: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore

Minister Balakrishnan reiterated Singapore’s backing for a peaceful resolution through a two-state solution, in line with United Nations Security Council resolutions, urging both Israeli and Palestinian parties to commence direct negotiations. This stance underscores Singapore’s vision for a peaceful coexistence and a sustainable, fair resolution to the conflict.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan’s meeting with Palestinian Authority Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Dr Riad Al-Malki in Ramallah, 18 March 2024
Photo Credit: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore

Additionally, the minister reaffirmed Singapore’s commitment to bolstering the PA’s capabilities in civil service and digital governance, highlighting the extensive training and scholarship programs from which over 700 PA officials have benefited. The establishment of the Singapore Representative Office in Ramallah was also noted as a significant step in enhancing Singapore’s support and assistance to the PA.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan with Non-Resident Representative to the Palestinian Authority Mr Hawazi Daipi and Members of Parliament Mr Alex Yam, Mr Gerald Giam, Ms Nadia Ahmad Samdin, Ms Rachel Ong, and Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim during meeting with Palestinian Authority Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Dr Riad Al-Malki in Ramallah, 18 March 2024
Photo Credit: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore

The visit included engagements with Palestinian alumni of the Singapore Cooperation Programme, marking a moment of cultural exchange and dialogue during an iftar, further emphasizing the depth of Singapore’s relationship with the Palestinian Territories.

Source – MFA