During the Boao Forum for Asia in Hainan, China, Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong (李顯龍) called on the US and China to stabilize their relationship and cooperate where their interests align. He warned that any conflict between the two superpowers would have “grievous consequences for themselves and the world.”
Tensions Between the US and China
As tensions between the US and China continue to rise, Singapore has attempted to navigate a middle path between the two powers. However, this has become increasingly challenging as national security concerns overshadow economic imperatives. Lee noted that countries are pursuing self-reliance and resilience by onshoring or friend-shoring their supply chains, and the bifurcation in technological and economic systems is deepening, which will result in a significant economic cost.
Lee’s Scheduled Meeting With Chinese President Xi Jinping
The speech comes before Lee’s scheduled meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping (習近平) in Beijing, where he will also meet other high-profile government officials. Singapore has become increasingly vocal over the rising tensions, with Singaporean Minister of Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan warning that the stage is “almost pre-set” for an accident similar to the events leading up to World War I. Recently, Lee emphasized that a conflict between China and the rest of the world, particularly between China and the US, would be disastrous and the world cannot afford it.
Close Relations Between the US and Singapore
The US and Singapore have maintained a close relationship since Singapore’s independence in 1965. The two countries have a strong economic partnership, with the US being Singapore’s top investor and Singapore being the US’ 15th largest trading partner.
Close Security Partnership Between the US and Singapore
In addition to economic ties, the US and Singapore also have a close security partnership. Singapore is a key partner in the US’ efforts to promote security and stability in the Asia-Pacific region. The US has a military presence in Singapore, including a logistics support facility and a rotational deployment of P-8 Poseidon aircraft.
The US and Singapore have also collaborated on various regional and global issues, such as counterterrorism, climate change, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Overall, the US-Singapore relationship has been characterized by strong economic and security ties, as well as cooperation on regional and global issues. Also learn about Exploring Opportunities: The Economic Partnership between Singapore and Vietnam for Small Businesses and The Historic Relations Between Singapore and Malaysia: From Unity to Separation and Beyond in our articles.
