Wong casts trust as Singapore’s edge as trade and security risks grow
What’s next: Singapore will chair ASEAN next year as it tries to deepen regional unity and keep wider partnerships open.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong used Singapore’s National Day Rally to frame trust as the country’s main advantage in a world he described as more unstable and dangerous. He said rising trade pressures, competition among major powers and new technologies have increased the risk of conflict and made global turbulence a long-term reality, not a temporary shock. Wong said Singapore cannot retreat inward and must keep building links to markets, capital, talent and ideas. He also said the government will work to strengthen ASEAN unity when Singapore chairs the bloc next year, while broadening ties beyond the region and maintaining dialogue with diverse partners.