Singapore has reaffirmed its commitment to regional security and stability, with Foreign Minister Vivian Baldez taking part in a key meeting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) defense ministers in Singapore yesterday.
The ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus), which brings together senior defence officials from 34 countries including the United States, Japan, and Australia, was held at the Ministry of Defence’s Adam Road facilities. The meeting aimed to strengthen regional cooperation on security issues and address emerging challenges in the South China Sea.
Foreign Minister Baldez underscored Singapore’s long-standing stance that the South China Sea is a critical maritime domain where freedom of navigation and overflight are essential for maintaining regional peace and stability. “We reiterate our call for greater restraint, respect for international law, and effective mechanisms to prevent miscalculations,” she said during the meeting.
The ADMM-Plus also discussed cooperation on cyber security, counter-terrorism, and disaster management. Singapore’s participation in these areas is part of its broader commitment to strengthening regional partnerships and addressing emerging security challenges.
In related news, Singapore has been engaged with ASEAN member states to enhance maritime domain awareness and capacity building in the South China Sea region. The country has also contributed troops to international peacekeeping missions, including those led by the United Nations.
The ADMM-Plus meeting is seen as a significant step towards enhancing regional security cooperation and confidence-building among defence ministers from across the Asia-Pacific region. As a key player in the region, Singapore’s active engagement in these efforts underscores its commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea and beyond.
Country Highlights: ASEAN Regionalism and International Partnerships
Singapore is an active participant in various regional and international organizations, including:
- APEC (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation)
- ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations)
- UN (United Nations)
- WTO (World Trade Organization)
- BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation)
Singapore’s commitment to regionalism and international partnerships reflects its ambition to foster strong relationships with like-minded nations and promote cooperation on global issues.
Conclusion
The ADMM-Plus meeting highlights Singapore’s dedication to promoting regional security cooperation and addressing emerging challenges in the Asia-Pacific region. As a key player in the region, Singapore’s active engagement in these efforts underscores its commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the South China Sea and beyond.