Dialogue with DBS CEO Tan Su Shan examined global challenges and Singapore’s strategic priorities
Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong joined DBS Chief Executive Officer Tan Su Shan for a dialogue at the inaugural DBS Asia Future Forward Conference on 13 October 2026, discussing the impact of geopolitics and artificial intelligence (AI) on the global environment and Singapore’s response to emerging challenges. The conversation examined how changing international dynamics were affecting countries and the importance of maintaining Singapore’s economic relevance and diplomatic relationships.
Geopolitics and AI were among the central themes of the discussion, reflecting developments that were reshaping the world and creating new challenges for countries, including Singapore. The dialogue provided an opportunity to discuss the implications of these changes and how Singapore could navigate an increasingly uncertain international environment.
Prime Minister Wong highlighted the growing influence of power and leverage in relations between countries, noting that smaller states would face greater pressure as international dynamics evolved.
“We are entering a world where power and leverage increasingly shape how countries deal with one another. Smaller countries like Singapore will inevitably face greater pressures,” he said.
He emphasised that Singapore needed to maintain constructive relations with all countries while retaining the confidence and capabilities to protect its national interests. He also highlighted the importance of remaining economically relevant by providing value that other countries needed.
“Our response must be to maintain good relations with all, while having the strength and confidence to stand our ground. We must also remain economically relevant, by offering something of value that others need,” Prime Minister Wong said.
He explained that maintaining this relevance would give other countries practical reasons to engage Singapore, consider its perspectives and take its interests seriously.
The Prime Minister also addressed the challenges posed by an increasingly turbulent international environment, stressing the importance of national unity and continued investment in Singapore’s capabilities.
“The world ahead will be more dangerous and turbulent. But if we stay united, strengthen our capabilities and remain relevant to the world, we can face the challenges ahead with confidence, and continue to chart our own path forward,” he said.
The dialogue underscored the importance of diplomatic engagement, economic relevance and national resilience as Singapore navigated changes in geopolitics and technological developments, including AI.
Source: Facebook/Lawrence Wong
