Ukraine crisis a reminder small countries must defend themselves: PM Lee
The ongoing crisis in Ukraine is a reminder that small countries must defend themselves and cannot rely solely on international treaties or the promises of others, said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in his first comments on the escalating crisis.
That’s why Singapore must always maintain a strong Singapore Armed Forces and Home Team, as well as a capable Foreign Affairs Ministry to strengthen the country's ties with friends and allies, he added in his Facebook post on Thursday.
“Only then can Singapore be safe and secure,” the Singaporean leader said.
"Ukraine is bigger than Singapore, but much smaller than its neighbour, Russia. For the last few months, the country has been in turmoil. Two weeks ago, President Yanukovich fled, and his pro-Russian government collapsed. Russian troops then intervened in the Crimea, a part of Ukraine that used to belong to Russia, and where Russia still has a naval base," he wrote.
PM Lee also warned that if war breaks out in Ukraine, the global economy will be affected, including Singapore’s.
“During the Budget debate, we always pay attention to local issues – healthcare, housing, public transport. But we must not lose sight of what is happening in the outside world, and how faraway events can affect us,” the Singaporean leader added.
He also expressed the country’s stance on the situation in Ukraine.
“We condemn any unprovoked invasion of a sovereign country, whatever the pretext. All countries, big and small, must observe international law. This is vital to a small country like Singapore,” PM Lee said.
