“Singapore and Thailand Must Innovate Amid Shifting Global Order: Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan”

SINGAPORE – Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan emphasized the need for Singapore and Thailand to embrace innovative approaches as they navigate an increasingly complex global landscape. Speaking at the close of a two-day visit to Thailand, where he co-officiated the 14th Thailand-Singapore Civil Service Exchange Programme (CSEP), Vivian highlighted the deep and enduring ties between the two nations.

Reflecting on the post-war era’s economic progress, Vivian underscored how both nations benefited from a rules-based global order and the opening of major markets like China and India. However, with those foundational structures under strain, he warned that “doing more of the same” would no longer be sufficient for sustainable growth.

Instead, he advocated for deeper ASEAN integration, with investments in infrastructure, food production, and renewable energy to bolster ASEAN’s competitiveness. Commenting on Thailand’s interest in BRICS, he affirmed that such engagements enhance, rather than compete with, ASEAN’s mission, emphasizing a “win-win” approach to international cooperation.

With both bilateral and multilateral ties in focus, Vivian stressed the importance of openness and inclusivity in making ASEAN an attractive investment destination.