At the PAP Awards and Convention 2025, Singaporean leaders underscored the nation’s commitment to unity, adaptability, and principled diplomacy as the world faces deepening geopolitical tensions.
Singapore, 9 November 2025 — Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan reflected on Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s address at the People’s Action Party (PAP) Awards and Convention 2025, highlighting the urgent need for Singapore to remain resilient, united, and proactive in a world marked by rising uncertainty and strategic rivalry.
Dr Balakrishnan noted that global power competition is intensifying and international norms are fraying, placing smaller states like Singapore in a more vulnerable position. He emphasised that Singapore must continue to adapt, stay cohesive, and uphold its longstanding principles to safeguard its sovereignty and continued success.
On the foreign policy front, Dr Balakrishnan reaffirmed Singapore’s commitment to strengthening ties and trust across multiple regions, including the Middle East, Northeast Asia, and ASEAN. He underscored the importance of maintaining consistent engagement and fostering dialogue to promote peace and stability, adding that Singapore would always act in its own best interests guided by principles, international law, and neutrality, while avoiding the perception of taking sides.
Image by: Singapore Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vivian Balakrishnan
Reflecting the spirit of renewal embodied by the PAP’s 70th anniversary, Dr Balakrishnan also called for Singaporeans to remain united and steadfast in their shared national compact. “Our ability to live together, diverse as we are, is our true strength. We can never let that commitment fray,” he said.
Dr Balakrishnan concluded his remarks by expressing gratitude to his mentor, former Minister Lim Swee Say, for exemplifying service with integrity and positivity, and extended appreciation to long-serving volunteers whose quiet contributions have supported Singapore’s political and social fabric over the decades.
Source: Singapore Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vivian Balakrishnan
