Singapore's Foreign Policy in a Changing World: Key Takeaways and Statistics

Strategic Insights -

Singapore's foreign policy must adapt swiftly to the shifting global landscape, characterized by disruptions to global trade, rising risks of conflicts, and rapid technological change. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) aims to maintain a consistent and pragmatic engagement with all countries, reinforce Singapore's role as a credible and reliable partner, and look after Singaporeans overseas. The country will strengthen ties with the US and China, expand its circles of friends to include middle powers in emerging regions of growth, and position itself as a co-steward of the global commons.

Key Takeaways:

  • Singapore's foreign policy must adapt to the post-Cold War order, marked by disruptions to global trade, rising risks of conflicts, and rapid technological change.
  • The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) will maintain consistent and pragmatic engagement with all countries, reinforcing Singapore's role as a credible and reliable partner.
  • Singapore will strengthen ties with the US and China, expanding its circles of friends to include middle powers in emerging regions of growth, such as Africa, Central Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.
  • The country will launch a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with New Zealand and a Strategic Partnership with the Republic of Korea.
  • Singapore aims to proactively support effective rules-based multilateralism at the United Nations (UN) and the World Trade Organization.
  • The MFA will continue to engage Singaporeans on core foreign policy considerations and Singapore's role on the global stage, building domestic support for the country's long-term national interests.

Statistics:

  • Singapore has expanded its circles of friends to include middle powers in emerging regions of growth, such as:

+ 10 new diplomatic missions in Africa and Latin America in the coming years

+ 5 Comprehensive Strategic Partnerships and 5 Strategic Partnerships with countries like France, Germany, the UK, and Vietnam

  • The Singapore Corporation Programme has shared its experience with over 100 partner countries
  • 85% of Singaporeans live in a foreign country
  • The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has strengthened consular capabilities, including the eRegister platform for emergency response coordination
  • The World Trade Organization and the International Civil Aviation Organization have International Maritime Organization participation from Singapore

Sources:

  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of Singapore
  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of Singapore Press Release, Sept. 15, 2021