“Vivian Balakrishnan Discusses the Role of Non-Resident Ambassadors in Singapore”

Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan recently elaborated on Singapore’s decision to appoint non-resident ambassadors in addition to career diplomats, citing a shortage of personnel and expertise.

During a media briefing while on a working trip in the U.S., Vivian emphasized that a fundamental requirement for any ambassador representing Singapore is citizenship. He explained that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) is relatively small, which limits its ability to fill ambassadorial positions across all the countries that are significant to Singapore.

The non-resident ambassador scheme enables the MFA to broaden its pool of talent, drawing from the private sector. Vivian stated, “Having a core of non-resident ambassadors enriches dialogue and enhances access to new ideas and expertise.”

Responding to questions about George Goh, the former Non-Resident Ambassador to Morocco, Vivian acknowledged Goh’s contributions to representing Singapore but refrained from commenting on his potential candidacy for the presidency.

Goh’s media team clarified on June 20 that his role as Singapore’s honorary ambassador to Morocco is unpaid and does not classify him as a government employee. The title is conferred upon individuals recognized for their ability to strengthen Singapore’s diplomatic, economic, and cultural relationships. Following his announcement to run for president, Goh has resigned from his ambassadorship and is serving a three-month notice period until September 8.