Skip to main content
A Singapore Government Agency Website How to identify
Official website links end with .gov.sg
Government agencies communicate via .gov.sg websites (e.g. go.gov.sg/open). Trusted websites
Secure websites use HTTPS
Look for a lock () or https:// as an added precaution. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Government officials will never ask you to transfer money or disclose bank log-in details over a phone call.

Call the 24/7 ScamShield Helpline at 1799 if you are unsure if something is a scam. For more information on how to protect yourself against scams, please visit the ScamShield website.

Geneva WTO
Articles

MFA Press Statement: Introductory calls on Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan

28 October 2015

This article has been migrated from an earlier version of the site and may display formatting inconsistencies.

Two men in suits sit across from each other on yellow couches; another man takes notes.

Introductory call by US Ambassador Kirk Wagar on Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, 27 October 2015 [Photo Credit: MFA]

Two men in suits shaking hands in front of an framed art and a wooden desk.

Introductory call by Chinese Ambassador Chen Xiaodong on Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, 28 October 2015 [Photo Credit: MFA]



     The US Ambassador to Singapore H.E. Kirk Wagar and Chinese Ambassador to Singapore H.E. Chen Xiaodong paid introductory calls on Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan on 27 and 28 October 2015 respectively.  They had wide-ranging discussions on bilateral cooperation and regional developments.  During the discussions, Minister Balakrishnan reiterated Singapore’s position on the South China Sea as follows:


     Singapore supports the right of freedom of navigation and over-flight under international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

 

     Major sea and air lines of communications pass through the South China Sea.  Every state whose trade passes through the South China Sea, or whose ships and aircraft use the South China Sea, has an interest in upholding the right of freedom of navigation and over-flight.  This includes Singapore, for whom the South China Sea is a vital life line.

 

     Singapore as a non-claimant country does not take sides on the merits of the rival claims.  We urge all parties to manage their differences calmly and peacefully in accordance with international law, including UNCLOS, with the common aim of maintaining regional peace and stability.


.     .     .     .     .   



MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

SINGAPORE

28 OCTOBER 2015

Back to top