AUKUS Seen as Supporting ASEAN Centrality and Security
Singapore has expressed its support for Australia’s assurances regarding the AUKUS security pact, viewing it as a step towards maintaining a “stable and secure” Asia Pacific region. This was stated by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong during the 1st ASEAN-Australia Summit on Wednesday (Oct 27). The AUKUS agreement involves Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
Mr. Lee highlighted that this pact aligns with regional interests that include supporting ASEAN centrality, deepening economic ties, and adhering to international laws like the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. “We welcome Australia’s assurance that its AUKUS partnership with the US and UK will be consistent with these criteria,” he remarked.
He also acknowledged the comprehensive nature of the ASEAN-Australia relationship, which spans across the ASEAN community pillars. Singapore endorses Australia’s proposal for upgrading to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) with ASEAN and appreciates Australia’s contributions through the Australia for ASEAN Futures initiative.
ASEAN-Japan Relations
In another context, at the 24th ASEAN-Japan Summit, PM Lee reflected on the long-standing relationship between ASEAN and Japan, which has fostered trust and mutual respect since 1973. He outlined areas of cooperation including counterterrorism, cybersecurity, maritime security, public health, climate change, and urban development.
He welcomed further collaboration with Japan, particularly through the ASEAN-Japan Climate Change Action Agenda aimed at enhancing regional capacity to tackle climate change and promoting sustainable solutions. “I thank Japan for the projects it has initiated thus far and look forward to working together on more practical projects in the future,” Mr. Lee concluded, indicating a positive outlook on continued partnership.
