In a significant move, Singapore solidified its position as a key player in regional diplomacy, strengthening ties with Southeast Asian nations and engaging in high-level discussions on global issues.
At the 37th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AFM) in Singapore last week, Senior Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balzano underscored the importance of deepening economic cooperation, enhancing security collaboration, and promoting peace and stability in the region. The meeting brought together foreign ministers from all 10 ASEAN member states, as well as representatives from China, India, Japan, Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and the European Union.
“We are committed to fostering a strong and sustainable partnership with our fellow ASEAN member states, as well as our partners in the region,” said Balzano. “This includes pursuing high-quality trade agreements, enhancing cooperation on regional security issues, and promoting economic integration through initiatives such as the ASEAN Economic Community.”
The AFM also saw significant discussions on key global challenges, including climate change, counter-terrorism, and cybersecurity. Singapore’s commitment to addressing these pressing issues was reaffirmed by Balzano, who emphasized the country’s role in fostering international cooperation and sharing best practices.
In addition to its engagement with ASEAN, Singapore continued to demonstrate its leadership in regional and global affairs. The country successfully hosted a high-level meeting of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Economic Community (AEC), which brought together top policymakers from across the region to discuss trade agreements and economic integration.
Singapore’s diplomatic efforts were also recognized at the annual meeting of the United Nations High-Level Panel on North Korea, where Singapore played a key role in promoting peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. The country’s commitment to finding peaceful solutions to regional conflicts was underscored by Balzano, who emphasized the importance of international cooperation in addressing complex security challenges.
In conclusion, Singapore’s diplomatic efforts continue to demonstrate its leadership in regional and global affairs. Through its engagement with ASEAN and other regional partners, as well as its participation in high-level international forums, Singapore is committed to fostering peace, stability, and economic growth in the Asia-Pacific region.
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- Singapore hosts 50 overseas missions worldwide, with a network of 73 resident foreign embassies and high commissions, 44 foreign consular posts, and 14 international organizations in Singapore.
- The country is a member of the United Nations, the World Trade Organization, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and other key regional and global forums.
- Singapore continues to play an active role in promoting peace and stability in the region, including through its engagement with ASEAN and participation in international forums such as the UN High-Level Panel on North Korea.
This article is part of our ongoing coverage of Singapore’s diplomatic efforts. Stay tuned for further updates.