Lee Hsien Loong: Singapore-China Cooperation Based on Interests, Not Ethnicity

Singapore's Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong mentioned during a recent visit to China that cooperation between Singapore and China is based on shared interests, not because they belong to the same ethnic group. A Singaporean scholar pointed out today that Lee highlighted that cooperation and mutual benefit should not be confused with ethnic factors; although Singapore has a Chinese majority, it remains a multi-ethnic society. According to Lianhe Zaobao, Lee mentioned during his visit that opportunities for Singapore to invest in China are increasing, and Chinese companies also have opportunities to invest in Singapore, whether by setting up production facilities or using Singapore as a regional hub or international headquarters. Regarding concerns about over-reliance and identity, Lee said that cooperation is based on shared interests, not ethnic identity. China is one of Singapore's economic partners, but the U.S. remains a very important economic partner, as are Japan and Europe. 'If you only have one main friend, whoever it is, your options are limited.' Chong Ja Ian, an associate professor of political science at the National University of Singapore, who is familiar with geopolitical issues, told CNA today that this statement is notable because Lee pointed out that cooperation and mutual benefit should not be conflated with ethnic factors. The Shangri-La Dialogue, an important annual security forum in the Asia-Pacific, will be held in Singapore from the 29th to the 31st. Vietnamese President To Lam will deliver a keynote speech on the evening of the 29th, but the focus will be on U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.