In a special public lecture held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mr. George Yeo, a renowned former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Singapore, emphasized the importance of maintaining balance for ASEAN in the face of growing multipolarity.
On 6 December 2023, His Excellency SOK Chenda Sophea, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia, organized the lecture titled “Maintaining ASEAN’s Balance in the Transition to a Multipolar World” at the National Institute of Diplomacy and International Relations. Mr. Yeo, a visiting scholar at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy and Founding Patron of its Asia Competitiveness Institute, shared his insights on the rise of China and its implications for ASEAN.
Mr. Yeo noted that Cambodia has made significant strides in transforming from a war-torn country to an economically vibrant nation, highlighting the crucial role of peace and stability in achieving such progress. He also discussed the emergence of new poles of power in other continents, which will transform the world into a multipolar system despite Western resistance.
While acknowledging the economic challenge posed by China’s rise, Mr. Yeo emphasized that ASEAN must adapt and adjust to changing pressures from different directions. However, he cautioned that ASEAN should not pick a side in the great power rivalry and instead maintain its unity. The organization should continue to follow the ASEAN Way of resolving issues, he advised.
Mr. Yeo also emphasized the importance of the United States engaging with ASEAN Member States, rather than pressuring them to pick sides. This, he believed, would be a more productive approach for both parties.
The lecture was attended by over 200 people from ministries, embassies, universities, think tanks, and news agencies, who engaged in thoughtful discussions with Mr. Yeo. He will deliver another special lecture at the Royal University of Phnom Penh on 7 December 2023, titled “Threats and Opportunities for Small Countries in a Multipolar World”.
In conclusion, Mr. Yeo’s lecture highlighted the need for ASEAN to maintain its balance in the face of growing multipolarity. As Cambodia continues to navigate its role in regional and international affairs, this message is timely and relevant.
Source: National Institute of Diplomacy and International Relations
Date of Release: 08 Dec 2023