Issue Briefs

Tiny Yet Mighty: Unravelling Singapore’s Diplomatic Mastery on theGlobal Stage

Despite its modest size, Singapore, a small island nation nestled in Southeast Asia, has emerged as a diplomatic powerhouse on the global stage. This research paper delves into the factors contributing to Singapore’s diplomatic prowess, examining its strategic approach, multilateral engagements, economic diplomacy, and soft power initiatives. Through a comprehensive analysis of Singapore’s diplomatic endeavors, this paper aims to unravel the key components of its success and provide insights into how small states can effectively navigate the complexities of international relations.

Keywords: Singapore, Diplomacy, Small state, Economic Diplomacy

Introduction

“The size of your dreams must always exceed your current capacity to achieve them. If your
dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough.” – Lee Kuan Yew

This quote by Lee Kuan Yew encapsulates the idea that even small countries can play a significant role on the global stage by aiming high and pursuing bold initiatives. Singapore also means “Lion City” in Sanskrit is a very small country with multidimensional problems but ambitious on the other hand. About sixty years ago, Singapore was passing by tough time after the departure of the Britishers, looking for survival options from 1965 till today. Singapore herself has transformed to such an extent that today it is an example of development across the world, known for its flourished economy. (Ayesha, 2023)

Through her efforts, she positions herself from a third-world country to a first-world country, from a small fishing village to its current status as a global financial hub. Despite its modest size it is difficult to spot it on a map and with limited resources, Singapore established itself as a diplomatic powerhouse on the global stage. Singapore is keenly aware of its limitations in material hard power. Hence it invested a lot in diplomacy, and turn “diplomacy has played a significant part in Singapore’s success story abroad over the past 50 years”. (Yeo,2017).

Singapore proved itself in its economy, military, and soft power. Singapore has bilateral relations with major powers like the US, and China. Singapore is a respected member of the international community. There are 70 diplomatic missions in Singapore. Singapore has established embassies, high commissions, and consulates in 32 countries. Singapore has consistently been able to successfully negotiate the challenge of international relations thanks to its practical, astute, and flexible diplomacy under the umbrella of nationalism.

Comprehending Singapore’s diplomatic approach is vital for acknowledging the country’s noteworthy accomplishments as well as for acquiring a deeper understanding of the larger dynamics of small-state diplomacy in the twenty-first century. However, the question arises: What are the key components of Singapore’s diplomatic approach, and why is it important to study?

Significance of Studying Singapore’s Approach

Singapore is half the size of Delhi, but established diplomatic relations with 187 sovereign states and participates in all major multilateral forums and international institutions. Singapore is a founding member of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), with the purpose of collaboration and cooperation in the economic, social, cultural, technical, educational, and other fields. Singapore has contributed to the work of fostering a robust ASEAN community through several formal programs, especially through education. (Singapore, ASEAN, and Cultural Competence, n.d.)

Singapore is also an initiator of various informal multilateral groupings such as the Forum of Small States (FOSS), the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM), and the Global Governance Group (G3) to encourage dialogue and cooperation. As a small nation-state, Singapore strongly supports ASEAN’s goal of building a strong, prosperous, and rules-based ASEAN. The ASEAN community, comprising the ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC), the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), and the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC), was established on 31 December 2015 (Ministry of Foreign Affairs Singapore (ASEAN), n.d.). Despite its small size, Singapore made a big contribution to regional leadership, helping to define ASEAN with its diplomatic abilities, economic vision, and active involvement in regional efforts.

The diplomatic strategy employed by Singapore bears noteworthy effects on other minor nations striving to establish their legitimacy and maneuver through the intricacies of global politics. This tiny nation can serve as a reference for those developing foreign policy, assisting decision-makers, and adapting to shifting geopolitical conditions. Despite being a small country, Singapore’s achievements are remarkable and worthy of praise for many reasons. well and commendable. Singapore’s economic diplomacy has been crucial in advancing global trade, drawing in foreign investment, and propelling the country’s economic progress. Other emerging and underdeveloped countries can acquire significant understanding into luring foreign direct investments (FDIs), creating business-friendly environments, negotiating trade agreements, and utilizing economic alliances for shared advantages by studying Singapore’s approach to economic diplomacy.

Historical background of Singapore

Singapore is a small country, whose development is closely tied to its colonial past and the struggles for independence that followed. Singapore’s history as a British colony dates back to the early 19th century when it was established as a trading port of the British East India Company in 1819 by Sir Stamford Raffles. Over decades, Singapore grew into a thriving port city, attracting immigrants from various parts of Asia and beyond because of its strategic location in the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. By the early 20th century, Singapore had become one of the wealthiest and most cosmopolitan cities in Asia.1 Between 1960-1990 Singapore included her name in four Asian tigers, with a growth rate of more than 7%. The formation of political parties such as the People’s Action Party (PAP), led by Lee Kuan Yew, played a major role in advocating for Singapore’s autonomy.

Today, Singapore ranked 11th out of 180 countries in the UN Human Development. Singapore witnessed a roller-coaster history from widespread poverty, unemployment, and high crime rates to resilience, adaptability, and determination. A stark turnaround was seen over the next 25 years, which left the world shocked. With no corruption or other crimes, Singapore has developed into one of the world’s most developed and wealthy nations, ranking among the top five. It is also possibly the best Asian nation overall.

Early Diplomatic Challenges

Following a protracted period under the rule of the British Empire, Singapore’s first diplomatic objective was to gain international recognition as a sovereign country. Some questioned whether Singapore’s independence was truly achieved because of the peculiar circumstances surrounding its founding. Lee Kuan Yew embarked on a diplomatic campaign to establish diplomatic relations with key countries. (50 Years of Singapore’s Diplomacy: Highlights and Insights- News, n.d.)

After the withdrawal of British forces from Singapore in 1967, the primary for Singapore was to ensure national security and defense was paramount, as Singapore was vulnerable as a small island nation surrounded by larger neighbors. Singapore‘s separation from the Malaysian Federation creates economic unrest in the nation. Now for Singapore, it is important to step outside and try to boost economic growth and attract foreign investment, instead of concentrating on the home market, adopt an export-oriented approach.

Key Component of Singapore’s Foreign Policy

Singapore’s foreign policy is based on five core principles. First, Singapore needs to be a successful and vibrant economy, with stable politics and a united society. Singapore has maintained one of the first basic principles by being the most effective foreign economic policy (FEP) of any small state. In 1967, after the Britisher withdrawal, Singapore had to go against the grain and open its borders to foreign investors. As then Finance Minister Goh Keng Swee added briefly to survive, Singapore had to tap into the global market, he added Singapore’s growing industries produced goods not for the domestic market, which was far too small, nor even for the regional market in Southeast Asia…Our market was the world market (1965-1970: Singapore’s Development Plan (Sg101.giv.sg), n.d.)

In 1967, the Economic Expansion Incentives Act was introduced. It provided new tax incentives for investments. In 1968, Neptune Orient was established, and this gave Singapore another way to support the economy through fair freight routes. In 1970 Singapore was included as one of the “Four Asian Tigers”. Singapore has a network of free trade agreements (FTAs) with numerous countries and regions, facilitating trade and investment flows. Singapore’s total merchandise trade amounted to SGD 1.1 trillion in 2020, with exports and imports valued at SGD 6.174 billion and SGD 493.5 billion. Singapore actively promotes foreign direct investment (FDI) through its pro-business environment, incentives, and investment protection measures. Singapore attracted SGD 17.2 billion in fixed-asset investments in 2020, with investment from sectors such as electronics, chemicals, and precision engineering.

The second principle is that Singapore must not be a vassal state. Singapore offers a debate forum that is always impartial. Singapore has been a proactive player in the realm of military diplomacy. Singapore’s defense policy is fundamentally based on the twin pillars of deterrence and diplomacy. Deterrence is provided by developing a strong and capable Singapore Armed Forces (SAF). This involves institutions like National Service and Total Defence, as well as prudent and stable defense spending. The second pillar, defense diplomacy, is built by establishing strong and friendly ties with defense establishments and armed forces globally. Singapore actively engages in extensive interactions and cooperation with regional and international partners. In 2006, Singapore collaborated closely with its ASEAN neighbors within the framework of the ASEAN Defence Minister Meeting (ADMM).

In 2017, Singapore celebrated 50 years of National Service. By fostering understanding and building confidence, these defense relationships contribute to regional and global security. They also enable the SAF to learn from global counterparts and access overseas training areas and technology cooperation for defense. (MINDEF Singapore, 2021)

The third principle is that Singapore aims to be a friend to all, but an enemy of none. Singapore’s role as a regional leader within ASEAN is undisputed. ASEAN is committed to maintaining peace and stability in Southeast Asia, and Singapore advocates for constructive dialogue and practical cooperation among stakeholders. Singapore also participates in various regional forums and initiatives aimed at addressing common challenges, including security issues, economic development, and environmental sustainability.

In 2014, Singapore facilitated peace talks between the Philippine government and the Marco Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), leading to the signing of the comprehensive agreement onthe Bangsamoro. (The Normalization Process in the Bangsamoro Faces Rising Uncertainity,n.d.)Singapore is working to promote dialogue and reconciliation in the South China Sea disputes by advocating for peaceful resolution through international law and diplomatic negotiations. In July 2017, Vivian Balakrishnan’s address at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs mentioned that “Diplomacy is not just about having friendly relations at all costs, but also about protecting their interest”.

Being such a small country Singapore had a bilateral relationship with major superpowers Like the U.S. and China. Singapore and China have multifaceted relations, cultural exchanges, and strategic dialogue. Since 2013, China has been Singapore’s largest trading partner and the two countries have deep economic ties, with significant investments flowing in both directions. In 2020, Singapore’s imports and exports with China accounted for 14% of its total trade (Singapore’s Prominent Role in China’s Trade Strategy, Economy News- Think China, n.d.).

In 2021, China exported $53.9 Billion worth of goods to Singapore.

On the other hand, Singapore enjoys a strong bilateral relationship with the United States, which is a vital security and economic ally. The United States and Singapore have a strong trade relationship that is supported by the United States-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Singapore’s strategic position in the Asia-Pacific region makes it a valuable partner for the United States. Both countries are involved in the ongoing Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations (Singapore| United States Trade Representatives(ustr.gov), n.d.).

Apart from that Singapore has historical, cultural, and economic ties with India. The CECA, (Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement) came into effect in June 2005 and serves as the cornerstone of economic engagement between India and Singapore. Singapore is India’s largest trade partner within the ASEAN region. In 2021-22, the total trade volume reached USD 30.11 billion. Singapore is a leading source of foreign direct investment(FDI) for India and also contributes significantly to External Commercial Borrowings and Foreign Portfolio Investments (Unclassified India-Singapore Bilateral Relations Brief (Mea.gov.in),n.d.).

The Fourth Principle of Singapore’s foreign policy was to promote a global world order governed by the rule of Law and international norms. Being a small state, Singapore always actively participated at the United Nations, and in the formulation of international regimes and norms. As a member of the United Nations (UN), Singapore has contributed to multilateral diplomacy and peacekeeping efforts on the global stage. Since 1989, Singapore has actively participated in 17 peacekeeping and observer missions. (Dass & Ling, 2023)

Singapore in January 2001, and May 2002, held the presidency of the UN Security Council facilitated discussion on key global security issues, and contributed to diplomatic efforts to address conflict and crises. Singapore is known for its commitment to international law and dispute resolution, by supporting ICJ and the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS). In November 2023, Singapore donated S$2 million through the Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation (RLAF). (Singapore’s Humanitarian Assistance Contributions to Gaza, 2023)

The fifth principle of Singapore is to be a credible and consistent partner. Despite being a small country, Singapore is taken seriously due to its peaceful nature, constructive economy, and cultural diplomacy. Singapore always tried to give a platform for other small countries by establishing the forum of small states in 1992. Today, the Forum of Small States has grown to 107 Countries, more than half the membership of the UN. Singapore played a constructive role in the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS). And always ensure that the voices of small states are heard, and serve as a bridge between the G20. (Full Speech: Five Core Principles of Singapore’s Foreign Policy, 2017)

The Way Forward

Singapore is a diverse country with its own unique challenges, but its economic success is undeniable. Effective governance has played a key role in achieving this success, through policies such as public savings, pro-business initiatives, foreign policies, and housing. Singapore is gaining attention for its efforts to enhance its soft power and promote cultural exchange, which fosters mutual understanding.

Kofi Annan, who served as the Secretary-General of the United Nations, once described Singapore’s journey from a third-world country to a first-world nation as remarkable. He commended Singapore’s people for their determination and vision, stating that their efforts were key to the nation’s success. Annan’s quote is not only a tribute to Singapore’s transformation, but it also serves as a model for other countries to follow. This quote highlights Singapore’s ability to strategize and adapt to changing circumstances, demonstrating its resilience and commitment to progress. Singapore is a truly remarkable nation, with a rich blend of cultures and ethnicities. Its population consists of people from various backgrounds who practice five main religions. Despite its diversity, Singapore has managed to achieve unparalleled success that is simply awe-inspiring. The country’s remarkable accomplishments are a testament to its incredible leadership, resilient people, and unwavering commitment to progress and prosperity.

In conclusion, Singapore’s diplomatic prowess on the global stage serves as a model for other small states aspiring to make their mark in the international arena.

REFERENCES

Anu Chauhan