Singapore Representative: Diplomacy Prioritizes Principles, National Interest and Survival Depend on Self-Reliance

Taipei, CNA – (Central News Agency reporter Yang Yao-ju, Taipei, April 24) Singapore's representative to Taiwan, Foo Teow Lee, in an exclusive interview with the Central News Agency, emphasized that Singapore's foreign policy is based on principles, consistency, and national interests. She stated that sacrificing its own interests due to external pressure would instead damage the country's credibility; Singapore also deeply understands that security and survival depend on itself, and it cannot expect others to come to its aid, thus requiring foresight.

Singapore's foreign policy is often perceived as a neutral stance, charting its own course amidst geopolitical currents. In response, Foo Teow Lee, in her exclusive interview with the Central News Agency, said, "Actually, that's not the case." She explained that Singapore's foreign policy is built on principles, consistency, and long-term national interests, and has always been a steadfast supporter of the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter.

Taking the Russia-Ukraine war as an example, Foo Teow Lee stated that despite the absence of a UN Security Council resolution, Singapore imposed sanctions on Russia because Russia's actions seriously violated international law. Singapore cannot accept unprovoked invasions of sovereign states and must clearly state its position to ensure its long-term national interests and international order.

She further explained that some countries feel Singapore is on their side, but then feel Singapore is opposing them on other issues. However, for Singapore, sacrificing its principles or interests due to external pressure would, in the long run, damage Singapore's credibility and reliability, and its voice in the international arena would not be taken seriously later.

The Australian think tank, the Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP), ranks Singapore as one of the most peaceful countries in the world, often placing 5th or 6th in its annual "Global Peace Index." Despite no apparent external threats, Singapore's defense spending has remained around 3% of its GDP in recent years.

Foo Teow Lee said that Singapore has always believed that peace and security are never to be taken for granted, and because it cherishes peace, it deeply understands that peace is maintained by reliable defense capabilities, which requires long-term preparation and investment.

She emphasized that Singapore's defense spending is expected to remain around 3% of GDP, and will be prepared to increase it appropriately if needed. This consideration is related to Singapore's security outlook. Singapore does not assume that threats will necessarily occur and exist, but it must plan ahead to ensure that it has the ability to protect national interests and the safety of its people under any circumstances.

Singapore's founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew once said, "The good governance and social order that Singapore possesses are not to be taken for granted; in fact, it almost didn't reach this point today." Foo Teow Lee cited Lee Kuan Yew's words, pointing out that whether from historical experience or the pandemic, Singapore clearly recognizes that security and survival ultimately depend on itself, and it cannot expect others to come to its aid in extraordinary times.

Recently, "caning" has sparked discussion in Taiwan. Singapore amended its laws last year, allowing convicted fraudsters to be subjected to caning. Foo Teow Lee said the main reason is the significant increase in fraud cases in recent years, with losses from fraud reaching S$900 million last year. Caning in Singapore dates back to the British colonial era and has a very mature legal system and strict implementation procedures. A doctor must be present during its execution, and the intensity of the punishment must be assessed; it is not randomly applied, but must ensure safety and compliance.

Foo Teow Lee arrived in January this year and was interviewed by the Central News Agency on April 22, her first media interview since taking office. (Editors: Lin Ke-lun) 1150424