Singapore's diplomatic efforts have been instrumental in fostering regional cooperation against the threat of terrorism, a key aspect of the country's foreign policy. On June 15, 2022, at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Singapore played a pivotal role in shaping the region's counter-terrorism strategy.
The summit saw ASEAN member states and key partners, including Australia, China, India, Japan, South Korea, and the United States, come together to discuss the evolving landscape of global terrorism. Singapore's Minister for Foreign Affairs, Vivian Balakrishnan, led the country's delegation, which included senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Singapore Police Force.
During the summit, Singapore emphasized the importance of collaboration in countering terrorism, including sharing intelligence, enhancing capacity-building, and promoting regional awareness. The country also underscored its commitment to supporting counter-terrorism efforts in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly through its participation in regional organizations such as the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and the East Asia Summit (EAS).
The summit's outcome includes the adoption of a new ASEAN Regional Action Plan on Countering Terrorism, which aims to strengthen regional cooperation in preventing and responding to terrorist threats. Singapore has been instrumental in shaping this plan, drawing on its own experience in countering terrorism, including its expertise in combating radicalization and extremism.
Singapore's efforts in regional counter-terrorism have received international recognition, with the country being selected as a "Best Practice" by the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC). This recognition reflects Singapore's commitment to sharing best practices and contributing to the global fight against terrorism.
In conclusion, Singapore's leadership on counter-terrorism issues has played a significant role in promoting regional cooperation and advancing the global agenda. As the country continues to navigate the complexities of this threat, its diplomatic efforts will remain crucial in shaping the response to this evolving challenge.
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