Mr Chan: All Countries, Big or Small, Have Shared Responsibility and Agency

Minister for Defence Mr Chan Chun Sing spoke at the 12th Beijing Xiangshan Forum's second plenary session, titled “Strategic Mutual Trust and Security Cooperation in the Asia-Pacific Region”, this afternoon.

Mr Chan (second from left) participated in a plenary discussion at the 12th Beijing Xiangshan Forum.

Minister for Defence Mr Chan Chun Sing is in China from 15 to 18 September 2025 for his introductory visit and to attend the 12th Beijing Xiangshan Forum. He attended the opening ceremony of the forum this morning and spoke at the second plenary session titled “Strategic Mutual Trust and Security Cooperation in the Asia-Pacific Region”.

In his speech, Mr Chan highlighted that all countries, big and small, have agency and a shared responsibility to continue reinforcing the international rules-based order, in an increasingly fragmented and uncertain world. He said, “Between major powers, competition and cooperation are not mutually exclusive. There is room for major countries to manage their differences and tackle global challenges together – from climate change to global health… Small states also have agency… we should consistently abide by the principles that underpin an open and inclusive rules-based order. That is the surest way to secure our survival and success in the long term.”

Mr Chan also reaffirmed Singapore’s commitment to working with like-minded partners for the common good. He emphasised that peace can never be taken for granted and Singapore will continue to contribute to global stability by taking the side of principles. He said, “In the security domain, we have pushed for constructive engagement between militaries to enhance mutual understanding. The uncertain geopolitical environment today makes this challenging, but even more vital… All of us can make the choice to safeguard a better life for future generations.”

Mr Chan’s visit to China underscores the longstanding, warm and friendly bilateral defence relations between both countries. Both defence establishments have regular high-level exchanges, military-to-military interactions, academic exchanges and cross-attendance of courses.

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Speech by Minister for Defence at 12th Xiangshan Forum Second Plenary on “Strategic Mutual Trust and Security Cooperation in the Asia-Pacific Region”