COUNTRIES TO FOLLOW RULES AND BUILD MUTUAL TRUST: DR NG

In light of new powers, transnational challenges and maritime disputes, rules should be adhered to with the correct spirit, to build mutual confidence and trust for regional stability.

This was Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen's key message at the concluding session of the Shangri-La Dialogue. Held from 29 to 31 May, the high-level security summit is a gathering of defence delegates from around the world to discuss ongoing issues.

Speaking at the plenary session, Dr Ng said that, as Asia played an increasingly important role in global trade, international finance and military security, there would be pressure for rules to govern according to the international order, to accommodate nationalistic aspirations of new entrants and rising powers in the Asia Pacific.

Citing the rising tensions in the South China Sea as an example of the power shift, he said: "None would disagree that a rules-based system must prevail if there is to be stability and peace in our region."

However, he added, these rules must also be infused with the correct spirit to respond to these challenges.

"What is equally vital is the political commitment to build mutual confidence and trust within that framework, based on shared interests and prosperity," he said.

While Singapore was taking no sides in the disputes, Dr Ng expressed concern over the uncertainties in international agreements, which have created instability in the region. He said the intention to work towards an early conclusion of the Code of Conduct was a positive example that must be followed through to its completion.

"We must all work together, to provide clarity if not on principles or law, then on practices and procedures that maintain regional stability and restore confidence and trust."

Dr Ng also touched on new transnational challenges such as terrorism, piracy, cybercrime and trafficking of humans and drugs affecting the region, as well as the important role that key global players had to play.

He urged the powers like the United States, Europe, China, India, Japan and ASEAN countries to ensure that the security architecture remained inclusive and operated on rules which had the consensus of the larger international community.

Noting that these same rules which had brought peace and prosperity over the past decade should remain relevant and strong, Dr Ng also called for a new consensus which should take into account the realities of the new challenges.

"(This new consensus should ensure that) principles such as sovereignty, respect for international law and peaceful settlement of disputes that protect the global commons remain at the core of global order in this century," he said.

On the sidelines of the Dialogue, Dr Ng hosted breakfast for Indonesian Defence Minister Ryamizard Ryacudu, and held a meeting with Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani.