Updated: 12/01/2012 07:42

Armed forces still relevant amid new world /order & security challenges, says DPM Teo

®Copyright MediaCorp

Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean has stressed the relevance of a defence and armed forces, even with a new world order and security challenges.

For Singapore, he said maintaining the ability to protect the country's sovereignty is critical for survival.

Speaking at a lecture held here, Mr Teo said countries still need armed forces, so that they're able to defend themselves.

He also outlined Singapore's defence and diplomacy principles, which he said has served the country well.

He said Singapore has sought to make friends with all who wanted to be friends.

The country has also built up ASEAN as the core.

Mr Teo said that is important because whenever ASEAN is united and cohesive, the region enjoys peace and stability.

He added Singapore also works for a multilateral system that is fair and equitable to countries, big and small.