Adjournment motion on shaping foreign policy in a less predictable world

Citizens do take an interest in how Singapore positions itself today vis-a-vis the uncertain global state of affairs and they are confronted with it more directly than ever before, said NMP Syed Harun Alhabsyi. “I believe we can and must engage citizens better as part of our foreign policy strategy,” he said in his adjournment motion in Parliament on Tuesday (Sep 10). He also said Singapore has the opportunity to make a difference and shape the world for the better. It can use its size and nimbleness to its strength, lean on its good standing as an honest broker and concerned citizen of the world and seize the opportunity to make a difference and influence for a better world. Responding, Foreign Affairs Minister Vivian Balakrishnan agreed with the call to double down on Singapore’s values and principles, and to speak up whenever and wherever there are transgressions of international law. “This is precisely what we do. We do not take sides. We uphold principles. And we do so consistently,” he said. Dr Balakrishnan said Singapore’s consistent application of these principles has allowed it to maintain credibility with major and middle powers, as well as its neighbours. He also agreed that foreign policy begins at home and that Singapore has to do more to engage its people. He stressed the need to engage, explain and mobilise every Singaporean as they are “ambassadors” now. But Singapore needs to find consensus and be able to express that credibly on the global stage, he added.