Mr Chan Chun Sing highlighted the role of both big and small states in maintaining the rules-based international order at the Xiangshan Forum in Beijing.
Beijing, 18 September 2025 – Singapore’s Minister for Defence, Mr Chan Chun Sing, was in China from 15 to 18 September 2025 for his introductory visit and to attend the 12th Beijing Xiangshan Forum. On 16 September, he attended the opening ceremony of the forum and spoke at the second plenary session titled “Strategic Mutual Trust and Security Cooperation in the Asia-Pacific Region”.
In his address, Mr Chan emphasised that all countries, regardless of size, had agency and a shared responsibility to uphold the international rules-based order in an increasingly fragmented and uncertain world. He stated, “Between major powers, competition and cooperation are not mutually exclusive. There is room for major countries to manage their differences and tackle global challenges together – from climate change to global health… Small states also have agency… we should consistently abide by the principles that underpin an open and inclusive rules-based order. That is the surest way to secure our survival and success in the long term.”
He also reaffirmed Singapore’s commitment to working with like-minded partners to advance peace and security, noting that stability could never be taken for granted. He said, “In the security domain, we have pushed for constructive engagement between militaries to enhance mutual understanding. The uncertain geopolitical environment today makes this challenging, but even more vital… All of us can make the choice to safeguard a better life for future generations.”
Mr Chan’s visit underscored the longstanding and friendly defence ties between Singapore and China. The two defence establishments continued to engage in regular high-level exchanges, military-to-military cooperation, academic dialogues and cross-attendance of professional courses.
Source: MINDEF
