This principle focuses on the importance of maintaining a wide range of international relationships, whether with Ukraine, Australia, or even Panama. With broad connectivity, Singapore becomes less dependent on any single country.

When the U.S. imposed a global tariff hike in April, it created uncertainty and major disruptions in global trade, leading to a domino effect worldwide. Hence, Singapore needs to engage even more countries to secure alternative markets and partnerships. By doing so, Singapore can reduce the risks of being affected by the actions of any one country and continue trading and attracting investment. However, as Singapore has limited resources, it cannot be fully independent, making strong international ties crucial.

In times of uncertainty, Singapore will need to engage other countries as we require support from other countries, especially due to the country's lack of resources, to support Singaporeans. Thus, Singapore needs to build ties with as many partners as possible, so that we do not over rely on one country. When one country is affected by a crisis, Singapore will be better shielded from the impact of the crisis and remain influential through the many ties it has.

2. Be Successful as a Country and Relevant to the World

Singapore needs to engage other countries even more in times of uncertainty to remain relevant and earn trust from other countries. If Singapore can be influential in a crisis, Singapore will be valuable to many countries. For example, Singapore can offer its location as a neutral ground for dialogues or provide other countries with resources. Singapore can also engage like-minded countries in assisting other countries.

In times of uncertainty, Singapore has to rely on other bigger international countries such as US. Singapore being a reliable partner allows enables mutual between itself and other countries.

For example during Covid-19, American companies such as Pfizer set up manufacturing facilities and invested in Singapore to produce vaccines and medicines. This assistance helped to protect Singapore's medical infrastructure and was great help during Covid-19. Hence, Singapore must continue to establish and maintain its credibility to be able to receive resources from greater countries.

1. Champion a rules-based order and respect for international law: Singapore emphasises the importance of a rule based multilateral system to ensure fair global trade. Adhering to the rules prevent larger countries from imposing any unfairness towards smaller nations.

2. Building as many ties as possible: Singapore’s strategy involves fostering diverse relationships across various regions to not be overly reliant on a single country. This approach helps provide the nation with alternative pathways to reduce impacts like the US tariff.

3. Be successful as a country and relevant to the world: Maintaining strong international ties helps Singapore to remain globally relevant. Engaging with a wide variety of countries allows Singapore to be able to continue accessing new markets and diversify economic foundation. This ensures success and stability.

Singapore needs to create ties and engage with other countries even more in order to safeguard its interests and maintain its global standing. Its goal is to not take sides in global rivalries so as to stay independent even as a small country. Where Singapore aims to expand our relations both politically and economically. While, promoting friendly relations with everyone as a way to protect and advance our own important interests.

It is also important that Singapore maintain ties with multiple partners, especially in times of uncertainty due to the lack of natural resources, Singapore is unable to be fully independent as it almost fully thrives on the global trade market.

By building as many ties as possible, it also helps Singapore to reinforce its role as a trusted and neutral global partner. This is a powerful driving factor that encourages other countries to invest in Singapore even in global economic uncertainties. This also follows the principle of being a credible and consistent partner.

Therefore, by following the principle of building ties with as many partners as many partners as possible, helps ensure Singapore is able to stay with flexible and resilient in times of uncertainty, allowing it to not only survive but adapt and thrive amid global economic shifts like the global tariffs hike imposed by the U.S.

Engaging other countries helps Singapore stand up for a fair and rules-based world, which is vital for small states like us. As bigger powers act in their self-interest, such as raising tariffs or shifting alliances, Singapore needs to stay connected and active in global affairs to safeguard our economy and sovereignty. Remaining credible and consistent helps other countries see us as a reliable partner, which strengthens our ability to survive and thrive despite the challenges.

1. 90% of food in Singapore is imported from other countries. As there is a lack of land space to be self-sustainable in food production which could mean that in the event

2. 40-50% of Singapore's source of water is imported from Malaysia which is expected to be discontinued from the year 2061.

3. 95% of Singapore's source of electricity is imported from nearby countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia.

This means that in the event of regional conflicts where it might involve Singapore, it may lead to cases where Singapore's primary sources of food, water and electricity may be cut which is an issue as Singapore does not have sufficient land space to be able to be self-sustainable in terms of producing sufficient food, water and electricity.

In times of uncertainty, Singapore must engage with other countries even more in order to build ties with as many partners as possible. Singapore is heavily dependant on global trade due to its limited resources. This can be seen as 90% of food in Singapore is imported from more than 180 countries, 40-50% of wwater is imported from Malaysia and 95% of Singapore's electricity is produced using natural gas from Malaysia and Indonesia. By strengthening relationships with as many partners as possible, it reduces Singapore's reliance on any single country and maintain access to alternative markets. This can help to safeguard Singapore's economy

As a small country with little to no natural resources, Singapore relies heavily on trade and strong international partnerships. Hence, it is even more crucial for Singapore to engage other countries to safeguard its economic interests and maintain stability. Building good relations with many partners in turn builds trust and credibility, allowing for continued growth despite global challenges.

• SG's total trade was about 300% of GDP, showing how much it relies on global markets over domestic production

• Disruptions like tariffs or trade wars can lead to higher import prices, reduced business activity, and less disposable income for citizens

To protect against this, Singapore builds as many ties as possible through

• 27 Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) like the CPTPP and RCEP

• Pacific Alliance-Singapore FTA with Chile and Peru that is taking effect in May

• Some efforts in bringing the Mercosur-Singapore FTA into force

By diversifying trade routes, it reduces vulnerability to external shocks by spreading the risks and secures preferential access to goods and services. Businesses can remain competitive and keep prices stable for consumers, even during uncertain times.

Therefore, by being a consistent and reliable partner, supporting other countries during their crises, Singapore fosters mutual trust and goodwill, making us more well respected. When countries and businesses around the world know they can trust Singapore to keep its word, uphold international agreements, and maintain a stable legal environment, they are more likely to invest, collaborate, and stand by us in troubling times. In a crisis, credibility also means that other countries would listen to us, trust our judgments, and be more likely to extend help or cooperation more readily.

Singapore also has to build ties with as many partners as possible because expanding our network of friends reduces over-reliance on any one country and allows us to better navigate global challenges together. Relying too heavily on one or two big powers would make Singapore vulnerable to sudden shifts in policy, trade restrictions, or geopolitical tensions. By diversifying our partnerships across different regions and sectors, Singapore is able to gain access to a wider range of opportunities as well. These diverse connections allow Singapore to stay resilient and adaptable, ensuring that we can continue to trade, grow, and protect our national interests no matter how uncertain the world becomes.

Recently, as the US has imposed a 10% tariff on Singapore, Singapore's economy has taken a huge hit due to our heavy reliance on trade with the US for profit.

Following the principle, if we are able to maintain many international relationships and trade with many other countries, we will reduce our reliance on any 1 country, including the US. Singapore will thus be able to rely on alternative markets and maintain our trade profit. Hence, if any country follows the US by practicing trade protectionism, Singapore's economy will not be heavily impacted.

With global challenges like the U.S. tariff hikes in April 2025, Singapore needs to stay connected with other countries. By being a credible and consistent partner, we show that we can be relied upon to maintain stable and trustworthy trade relations. This is important because we want to be a dependable partner to safeguard our small economy, which relies on international trade and investment.

For example, the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JSSEZ), launched in January 2025, is a partnership with Malaysia that promotes investment, strengthens cross-border cooperation, and makes trade more efficient. This shows Singapore’s commitment to building long-term, stable relationships even when global uncertainties arise.

2. To uphold international law and a rules-based world order

   As a small state, Singapore has no military or economic clout to force outcomes.

   Relies on international norms and multilateral institutions (like the WTO) to ensure fairness.

   In times when major powers take unilateral actions (like tariffs), Singapore must rally support with like-minded nations to push for adherence to global trade rules.

1. Through active diplomacy and defence cooperation, Singapore builds trust and deters threats. Strong relationships make it harder for others to act aggressively without consequences.

   
   

2. Trade wars and shifting alliances can disrupt global supply chains. By maintaining a wide network of trade partners, Singapore can reduce over-reliance on any single country and adapt quickly to changes.

   
   

3. By being consistent, principled, and trustworthy, Singapore gains respect. This allows it to punch above its weight in global forums and influence international rules that affect its interests.