Singaporean Minister States Resolving Taiwan Question Falls Under Chinese People's Sovereignty
Singapore's Defense Minister emphasizes the need to grasp Taiwan's historical context at the Shangri-La Dialogue's closing session.
Singaporean Defense Minister Chan Chun Sing delivered a pointed message on Sunday as he addressed the closing session of the 22nd Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. Chan emphasized that the resolution to the Taiwan question "will have to be determined by the Chinese people," highlighting the significance of historical context and regional understanding in any discussions about the issue.
"How this issue is going to be resolved, if not managed, will have to be determined by the Chinese people," Chan stated, underscoring the complexity and sensitivity surrounding cross-Strait relations. He urged participants and observers to avoid "simplistic" narratives or framing the situation solely as a battle between democracy and autocracy.
Chan expressed particular concern over the growing trend of comparing the Taiwan question to other international conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine, calling such analogies "scary" and unhelpful. According to Chan, drawing direct parallels can overlook the unique history and circumstances that define the relationship between the mainland and Taiwan.
The defense minister's remarks come at a time of heightened tension in the region, with major powers closely watching developments across the Taiwan Strait. By emphasizing self-determination by the Chinese people, Chan reinforced Singapore's longstanding position of non-interference and called for careful, historically informed approaches to diplomatic engagement and conflict management in sensitive areas.
As the Shangri-La Dialogue concluded, Chan’s comments were seen as a reminder to the international community to approach regional matters with nuance and restraint, and not to let global rivalries dictate the narrative or outcome of complex local issues.
