---

Singapore’s Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing has urged major powers to seize the moment and lead responsibly in a world where global order is increasingly fragile. Speaking at the Xiangshan Forum in Beijing during his first official visit to China as defence minister, Mr. Chan highlighted both the responsibilities of large nations and the role smaller countries like Singapore can play in promoting stability.

Global Order Under Pressure

“The current international environment presents a historic opportunity for great powers to lead and win the world over,” Chan said. His remarks come amid rising geopolitical tensions, trade conflicts, and shifting alliances that have challenged the post-World War II framework of global governance.

Chan emphasized that as global institutions face strain, the decisions of major powers will determine whether the world leans toward cooperation or conflict. “The actions of great powers today will shape the security and stability of generations to come,” he added.

Singapore’s Role as a Small Nation

While addressing the forum, Chan also spoke about Singapore’s perspective as a small but strategically minded country. He stressed that nations like Singapore can contribute meaningfully to global stability by prioritizing principles over power politics.

“Small countries also have the opportunity to contribute to global stability by taking the side of principles, and not power,” he said. This approach, he explained, involves supporting international norms, promoting dialogue, and fostering cooperation between nations, regardless of their size or influence.

Singapore has historically championed a rules-based international order, leveraging diplomacy, multilateral engagement, and strong bilateral relations to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes. Chan’s comments reinforced the city-state’s commitment to these principles while acknowledging the importance of responsibly engaging with larger powers.

Xiangshan Forum: A Platform for Dialogue

The Xiangshan Forum, held annually in Beijing, is a leading security and defence platform in Asia. It brings together defence ministers, military officials, and scholars from around the world to discuss regional and global security challenges.

During the forum, Chan emphasized the importance of dialogue and engagement in addressing contemporary security issues, from territorial disputes to cybersecurity threats. He encouraged collaboration based on shared principles rather than competition for dominance, reflecting Singapore’s broader approach to foreign policy.

Balancing Power and Principles

Chan’s remarks underline the delicate balance that smaller nations must maintain in a world dominated by great powers. While large nations have the resources and influence to shape global outcomes, smaller countries can exercise strategic diplomacy to promote stability, advocate for rules-based systems, and prevent conflicts from escalating.

This philosophy aligns with Singapore’s longstanding foreign policy, which emphasizes pragmatism, multilateral cooperation, and adherence to international law. By “taking the side of principles, and not power,” Chan argued, small nations can help sustain a global environment conducive to trade, security, and mutual respect.

The Importance of Responsible Leadership

For Chan, the forum was an opportunity to send a message to global leaders about the responsibilities of power. In an era of increasing polarization, rising nationalism, and complex security challenges, responsible leadership by major powers is critical.

“Great powers have both the capacity and the responsibility to lead,” Chan said. He noted that their actions can either reinforce international norms and stability or exacerbate tensions and disorder. The implication is clear: leadership is not just about influence, but also about ethical stewardship of global systems.

Implications for Asia and Beyond

Chan’s visit to China and his participation in the Xiangshan Forum come at a time of heightened focus on Asia’s security architecture. With regional flashpoints and global competition intensifying, Singapore aims to position itself as a credible voice advocating diplomacy, stability, and adherence to international norms.

By engaging directly with both regional powers and smaller nations, Singapore seeks to strengthen multilateral cooperation, facilitate dialogue, and promote constructive approaches to shared security challenges. Chan’s statements at the forum signal the country’s intent to remain proactive, principled, and engaged in shaping the future of global security.

Looking Ahead

The message from Singapore is clear: the world faces a pivotal moment where leadership, responsibility, and principled engagement will determine the course of international relations. Small nations like Singapore can contribute meaningfully, but the role of great powers remains decisive.

Chan Chun Sing’s remarks at the Xiangshan Forum serve as a reminder that global stability depends on collaboration, ethical leadership, and adherence to principles over mere displays of power. As geopolitical dynamics continue to evolve, Singapore is signaling its commitment to fostering a rules-based international system while encouraging great powers to exercise their influence responsibly.

---

---