Singapore will not negotiate with Iran to secure passage for Singaporean vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. This is not about siding with the United States or Western countries, but rather about voicing its stance based on its own strategic interests.
According to Lianhe Zaobao, Singapore's Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Law K Shanmugam reiterated and explained this position during his speech at the annual promotion ceremony for the Home Team on the 13th.
Shanmugam emphasized that Singapore’s position is not about taking sides with the US or Western countries. He said: “Our statements are based on our own strategic interests, and are in accordance with international law. This is a core interest of Singapore.”
He thanked Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar for his recent remarks on this issue. Last Friday (the 10th), Anwar told the media that Singapore has its own position regarding passage through the Strait of Hormuz, and that the important thing is for Malaysia and Singapore to continue to maintain their friendship.
Like many other countries, Singapore has been severely impacted by this conflict, including economically. Thirty percent of global trade passes through the Strait of Hormuz, which supports Singapore’s maritime sector. The maritime sector contributes 7% to Singapore’s GDP and employs over 170,000 people.
Shanmugam further pointed out that Singapore’s oil and electricity prices will both rise, driving up prices of other goods as well. The government has already announced a series of assistance measures and will continue to closely monitor the situation going forward.
Shanmugam emphasized that Singapore’s position is not about taking sides with the US or Western countries. He said: “Our statements are based on our own strategic interests, and are in accordance with international law. This is a core interest of Singapore.”
He thanked Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar for his recent remarks on this issue. Last Friday (the 10th), Anwar told the media that Singapore has its own position regarding passage through the Strait of Hormuz, and that the important thing is for Malaysia and Singapore to continue to maintain their friendship.
Like many other countries, Singapore has been severely impacted by this conflict, including economically. Thirty percent of global trade passes through the Strait of Hormuz, which supports Singapore’s maritime sector. The maritime sector contributes 7% to Singapore’s GDP and employs over 170,000 people.
Shanmugam further pointed out that Singapore’s oil and electricity prices will both rise, driving up prices of other goods as well. The government has already announced a series of assistance measures and will continue to closely monitor the situation going forward.