SECURING THE ARTERIES: DR VIVIAN BALAKRISHNAN
Securing the Arteries of the World: Why Singapore’s Stand Matters
In the world of geopolitics, some rules are non-negotiable.
Dr VIVIAN BALAKRISHNAN, EXTERNAL AFFAIRS MINISTER, SINGAPORE
This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International license.
Attribution: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website – www.dfat.gov.au
Via Wikipedia
Recently, Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Vivian Balakrishnan, delivered a powerful message regarding the Straits of Hormuz, the Strait of Malacca, and the Strait of Singapore. His message was clear: these are not just waterways; they are the lifeblood of global trade, and their freedom is a matter of absolute legal principle.
The Geography of Global Trade
To understand why this is so critical, look at the numbers.
While many eyes are often on the Strait of Hormuz, the Straits of Malacca and Singapore are even more vital to the world’s economy:
Breadth:
The narrowest point in the Strait of Hormuz is 21 nautical miles.
The Chokepoint: In the Strait of Singapore, that gap narrows to less than 2 nautical miles.
Volume:
More maritime oil—both crude and refined—and far more container trade flow through Singapore’s waters than even the Strait of Hormuz.
Principle Over Politics
Minister Balakrishnan’s stance is rooted in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). For a small nation like Singapore, international law isn't just a preference—it’s the "Constitution of the Oceans."
The Minister was firm:
"There is a right of transit passage. It is not a privilege to be granted by the bordering state... it is not a toll to be paid."
By refusing to negotiate on "toll rates" or "safe passage" fees, Singapore is defending a fundamental pillar of global stability. To negotiate would be to implicitly admit that this right can be bought, sold, or revoked.
Why Every Nation Should Follow Suit
Singapore's refusal to "take sides" and instead uphold principle serves as a vital blueprint for the international community. When nations begin to treat international waters as private property, the entire system of global commerce—and the peace that depends on it—begins to erode.
In an era of rising geopolitical tensions, the "Singapore Model" of legal rigidity is perhaps the only way to ensure that the arteries of the world remain open to all, without ifs, buts, or questions.
What do you think? Should more nations take a similarly firm, legally-driven stand on international transit, or is "flexible diplomacy" more practical in today's climate?
Grateful thanks to Google Gemini for its great help and support in creating this blogpost!🙏
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