China-Singapore Pacts will Boost Ties but Pose Challenges Too

The Straits Times

09 November 2015

The slew of agreements and strategic moves made between Singapore and China during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit will improve the bilateral relationship, create opportunities for both sides and provide a boost to regional initiatives, analysts said.

But there are also challenges, such as the potential impact on Singapore’s regional policy after a mutual pledge with China to deepen cooperation on regional issues, they added.

… International relations expert Li Mingjiang said the new “All-Round Cooperative Partnership Progressing with the Times” established during Mr Xi’s visit showed that both sides saw a need to redefine their long-term ties.

But by agreeing to strengthen cooperation with China on regional and global issues, Singapore may come under pressure from Beijing to act according to the latter’s expectations, said Professor Li.

“When you engage in closer consultation, naturally there will be pressure from China. China may want Singapore to be less vocal and perhaps expect it to pay more attention to China’s interests, especially those it has high stakes in,” he said.

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