Sino—US relationship most important for Asia—Pacific stability: Ng Eng Hen

SINGAPORE: Singapore Defence Minister Dr Ng Eng Hen said that China is an integral part of a globalised world and its actions will impact the rest of the world and vice versa.

Dr Ng was speaking at the People’s Liberation Army National Defence University on Wednesday afternoon during the third day of his introductory visit to China.

"China’s growth, as with other emerging economies like Singapore, was made possible by stable conditions and clear rules that had governed international financial, trade and security arrangements," he said.

"These were stable conditions and clear rules for the last half a century. As a growing power, China must continue to play a constructive role in maintaining the stability of these global systems."

Dr Ng said the China—US relationship is the most important relationship that will affect the Asia—Pacific region’s peace and stability.

Both sides have openly committed to fostering a cooperative partnership based on mutual respect and benefit.

He said that a constructive China—ASEAN relationship is also essential for regional growth and stability.

Dr Ng added that stable and constructive relationships between stakeholder nations can be best cultivated within a security framework that is open and inclusive.

Multilateral forums like the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM)—Plus and the Shangri—La Dialogue (SLD) were cited as valuable opportunities for regional key players to explore new ways to enhance regional security.

He also acknowledged that nations must go beyond just engaging in dialogue and take concrete actions, such as supporting the ADMM—Plus Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief/Military Medicine exercise.

— CNA/wm