At 50, The RSN Plays a More Critical Role Than Ever

TODAY

05 May 2017

Singapore’s economic success has been due largely to its development as an entrepot and global transshipment hub, in tandem with a strong manufacturing base. As the maritime space becomes more congested and contested, it is imperative for coastal states and their navies to put differences aside and find new ways to keep the risks of conflict in check.

This is important for Singapore, which has a vital interest in the free and orderly use of the seas based on international law. In this context, the RSN has both the duty and the opportunity to promote a stable maritime order. It is incumbent on the RSN and regional navies to develop operational arrangements and protocols to govern actions at sea, prevent miscalculations and promote mutual trust

… Barry Desker is a distinguished fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University and Singapore’s Non-Resident Ambassador to the Holy See and Spain. Among others, he was previously Chairman of ST Marine and CEO of Singapore Trade Development Board.

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