World · Singapore Bureau
Singapore to deepen Asean ties, expand global partnerships as 2027 chair
Singapore will use its upcoming Asean chairmanship to strengthen regional integration while broadening external relations with key partners across Europe, Africa, South America and the Pacific Islands, Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said.
LSN Singapore ·
Singapore is preparing to leverage its role as Asean chair in 2027 to advance both intra-regional cooperation and external engagement, according to Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan. The city-state aims to deepen integration among the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations while simultaneously widening ties with partners beyond the bloc.
Balakrishnan outlined plans to strengthen relationships with the European Union and countries across Africa, South America and the Pacific Islands during Singapore's chairmanship. The approach reflects Singapore's commitment to positioning Asean as a central actor in regional and global affairs amid evolving geopolitical dynamics.
The dual-track strategy underscores Singapore's view that regional cohesion and external partnerships are complementary objectives. By advancing Asean unity, Singapore can enhance the bloc's collective voice in international forums while building bilateral and multilateral relationships that benefit member states and contribute to regional stability and prosperity.