SINGAPORE: Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs
(MFA) says it is vital for the country to remain cohesive, alert
and nimble to take advantage of the opportunities and to get out of
harm's way if necessary.
It says that in a more unpredictable and fluid
global environment, Singapore will cooperate with all countries and
institutions that wish to cooperate with it.
At the same time, it will do what needs to be done
to protect and promote the country's national interests.
The ministry outlined these goals in its addendum to the
Presidential Address.
In the addendum released on Saturday, MFA said that ASEAN remains
Singapore's core interest and cornerstone of its foreign
policy.
It said a more integrated and cohesive ASEAN enhances the region's
economic competitiveness and gives it a strong platform to engage
key international players, especially the United States and
China.
And ASEAN should not be distracted from its goal of building an
ASEAN Community by 2015, through the implementation of the three
Community Blueprints.
The ministry described Singapore's relations with its closest
neighbours, Malaysia and Indonesia, as good.
It said that strengthening these relationships on the basis of
mutual benefit and mutual respect remains a key interest.
With Malaysia, the resolution of the railway land issue and the
handing over of the waterworks under the 1961 Water Agreement to
the Johor water authorities were milestones in the bilateral
relationship.
With these issues settled and upcoming projects like the joint
development in Iskandar Malaysia and the Rapid Transit System link
between Johor Baru and Singapore, there is strong impetus for
closer cooperation between Singapore and Malaysia.
MFA said relations with Indonesia are anchored by robust trade, as
well as investment links and cooperation in sectors such as health,
environment and counter-terrorism.
Cooperation with the Riau Islands (KEPRI), especially in the Batam,
Bintan and Karimun Special Economic Zone, will remain a
priority.
Bilateral relations with the other ASEAN member states are strong
and anchored in the bedrock of shared interests.
They will be further strengthened through regular bilateral
exchanges and institutionalised linkages, including technical
assistance through the Singapore Cooperation Programme and
Initiative for ASEAN Integration.
Turning to the United States, MFA said the US military presence in
the region continues to be the vital and irreplaceable foundation
of the stability that is the necessary condition for growth.
It said the US remains a key strategic and economic partner.
MFA said Singapore will continue to build on its excellent
relations with China and expand cooperation beyond the economic and
political spheres to areas such as education, culture and human
resource development.
On supporting Singaporeans abroad, MFA said it will continue to
work closely with the Overseas Singaporean Unit to keep them
connected to Singapore.
The ministry believes that the number of Singaporeans seeking help
overseas will increase as more travel for work, leisure and
education.
It will work closely with other agencies to ensure the safety and
well-being of Singaporeans overseas.
- CNA/ir