29 January 2002 1236 hrs (GMT) 2036 hrs (SST) Anti-terrorism efforts a matter of principle as much as security: DPM Tan by S. Ramesh
Adm Blair receiving his medal from DPM Tan

Singapore's contribution to the international effort against terrorism is as much a matter of principle as it is a matter of enhancing the country's own security.[an error occurred while processing this directive]

Making the point, Singapore's Deputy Prime Minister Tony Tan who stressed that the threat today is very different from the sort of terrorism threat Singapore faced in the past.

Dr Tan was speaking at a joint news conference with visiting US Commander-in-Chief of the US Pacific Command, Dennis Blair.

Admiral Blair is in Singapore to receive the country's prestigious Meritorious Service Medal (Military) for his role in strengthening the excellent ties between the US Pacific Command and the Singapore Armed Forces.

And decorating the US Admiral with the award, Dr Tan said Singapore would continue to support the anti-terrorism effort.

Dr Tan said: "Singapore regards the September 11 attacks in Washington and New York not as an attack only on the US, but as an attack on open societies everywhere.

"No country is immune from it. Certainly not an open society like Singapore. And no country on its own can effectively counter terrorism. So Singapore has to be a part of the global effort and international cooperation to combat this new terrorism."

Dr Tan was also asked if enough was being done by countries like Indonesia in its effort to combat terrorism.

He said he had received assurance from his Indonesian counterpart, the Coordinating Minister for Security, that the country is very much alive to the threats of terrorism and would take the necessary steps to counter it.

Besides supporting the international coalition and working with countries to counter global terrorism, Dr Tan also emphasised that Singapore will continue to maintain vigilance to strengthen the homeland defences and security.

This is to ensure that everyone working and living here feel that Singapore is safe and secure.

Admiral Blair said: "The security provided for our forces here has been first rate and we feel that our forces are as safe here as they are anywhere. I have observed the measure of our relationship between two countries when a crisis occurs, and the relationship between the US and Singapore respond magnificently, taking protection of each other's people."

On allowing American forces to use some military facilities here, Dr Tan emphasised that Singapore will continue to provide the support so long as the US military presence is important for regional peace and security.