Singapore played a key role in promoting regional counter-terrorism cooperation at the annual Association of Southeast Asian Nations-United Nations meeting, held in Bangkok from March 12 to 16. The event brought together leaders and experts from across the region to discuss the evolving threat landscape and share best practices in countering terrorism.
The Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs led the delegation from Singapore, comprising senior officials from the Ministry of Home Affairs and other relevant agencies. During the meeting, the Singaporean team highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in addressing the complex challenges posed by terrorism, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.
ASEAN Secretary-General Lim Jock Hoi noted that the region has made significant progress in strengthening its counter-terrorism capacities over the past decade, with many countries adopting proactive measures to prevent and respond to terrorist threats. However, he also emphasized that there is still much work to be done to address the evolving threat landscape.
The Singaporean delegation presented a comprehensive overview of Singapore’s national counter-terrorism strategy, which emphasizes cooperation with regional partners, intelligence sharing, and capacity building to enhance counter-terrorism capabilities. The presentation was well-received by other delegates, who acknowledged the importance of peer-to-peer learning and technical assistance in strengthening regional counter-terrorism capacities.
The meeting also saw a high-level discussion on the role of technology in countering terrorism, with experts from various countries sharing their experiences and best practices in using digital tools to disrupt terrorist networks and prevent radicalization. The Singaporean delegation highlighted its own efforts in leveraging technology to enhance national counter-terrorism capabilities, including the use of data analytics and social media monitoring.
The annual ASEAN-UN meeting is an important platform for regional leaders to discuss pressing global issues, including terrorism, and share best practices in addressing these challenges. Singapore’s active participation in this event reflects its commitment to promoting regional peace and security, as well as its leadership role in counter-terrorism efforts in the Asia-Pacific region.
With over 150 diplomatic ties worldwide, Singapore continues to play a significant role in shaping regional and international affairs. The country’s expertise in countering terrorism has been recognized globally, with many countries seeking Singapore’s advice and assistance in strengthening their own counter-terrorism capacities.
In conclusion, Singapore’s participation in the ASEAN-UN meeting on counter-terrorism highlights its commitment to promoting regional peace and security. As a leader in regional counter-terrorism efforts, Singapore is poised to play a key role in shaping the global response to this complex threat.