The Realism And Interdependence That Drives Singapore's Foreign Policy in Asia

Singapore, a small but highly influential country in Southeast Asia, has always been known for its pragmatic and calculated approach to foreign policy. With a unique blend of realism and interdependence, Singapore has been able to maintain its sovereignty, economic stability, and regional influence in a rapidly changing political landscape.

The Realist Perspective

Realism, as a school of thought in international relations, suggests that states act primarily based on their national interests and the pursuit of power. Singapore's foreign policy stance has always been grounded in this realism, recognizing the importance of safeguarding its national interests and security.

Realism and Interdependence in Singapore's Foreign Policy (Politics in Asia)

by Narayanan Ganesan (1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2480 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	191 pages

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Given its small size and lack of natural resources, Singapore understands the need to forge alliances and maintain a strong defense capability to ensure its survival in a region often marred by territorial disputes and power struggles. This realist approach has led Singapore to establish robust defense partnerships with major powers like the United States, while also actively participating in regional security forums such as the ASEAN Regional Forum.

Moreover, Singapore's realist perspective also drives its dedication to maintaining a credible military deterrence and a strong homefront resilience. Through investments in defense capabilities, such as submarines and advanced military technology, Singapore aims to deter potential aggressors and maintain its geopolitical relevancy.

The Power of Interdependence

In addition to realism, Singapore understands the power of interdependence in shaping its foreign policy decisions. Interdependence refers to the mutual reliance and cooperation between countries, often driven by economic and trade relationships.

Singapore recognizes that its economic prosperity is closely linked to the stability and economic integration of the region. As such, it actively promotes and participates in various regional initiatives that foster economic interdependence, such as the ASEAN Economic Community and free trade agreements.

By engaging in economic cooperation and utilizing its strategic location as a major trading hub, Singapore has become instrumental in facilitating cross-border investments and promoting interconnectivity among countries in Asia. This interdependence has not only boosted Singapore's own economy but has also enhanced its political influence in the region.

The Balancing Act

Singapore's foreign policy is characterized by a careful balance between realism and interdependence. While realism ensures the safeguarding of its national security interests, interdependence allows Singapore to maintain strong economic ties and promote regional cooperation.

This delicate balance becomes particularly evident in Singapore's approach towards major powers. Singapore seeks to maintain friendly relations with all major players in the region, including the United States, China, and India. By doing so, Singapore avoids becoming too reliant on any single power and preserves its political autonomy and maneuverability.

Furthermore, Singapore's foreign policy extends beyond Southeast Asia, as it strives to be an active player on the global stage. Through its membership in international organizations like the United Nations and World Trade Organization, Singapore aims to shape global norms and contribute to international stability.

The realism and interdependence that drive Singapore's foreign policy have proven to be crucial in maintaining its sovereignty, economic stability, and regional influence. By embracing realism, Singapore focuses on safeguarding its national interests while establishing strong defense partnerships. Simultaneously, its recognition of the power of interdependence enables Singapore to enhance its economic prosperity and political clout through regional cooperation.

As Singapore continues to navigate the complex political landscape of Asia, its foreign policy will undoubtedly evolve. However, the combination of realism and interdependence will likely remain at the core of Singapore's approach, ensuring its continued success in an ever-changing world.

Realism and Interdependence in Singapore's Foreign Policy (Politics in Asia)

by Narayanan Ganesan (1st Edition, Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2480 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	191 pages

FREE

Singapore’s existence and success derive in part from its achievements in the domestic political arena and in part from the skilful management of a well-defined foreign policy with clearly identifiable goals and issues. A visible core of realist self-reliance is layered with the demands of a competitive trading state that requires a liberal international trading regime. Hence, both competitive and cooperative philosophies support Singapore’s foreign policy.

This text charts the philosophical underpinning of Singapore’s foreign policy output and the institutions responsible for it and examines the importance of economic and defence diplomacy that are central to Singapore’s foreign policy output. It gives particular attention to the two most important regional bilateral relationships -- with Indonesia and Malaysia -- and how relations with its adjacent neighbours have influenced Singapore’s foreign policy. Combining first-hand research with excellent analysis, this volume provides a much-needed report on the survival of a small state in the globalizing world.