Singapore participates actively in international relations through involvement with several international organizations. It has been a member of the United Nations since 1965 and has served two terms on the UN Security Council between 2001-2002. Singapore also engages with the Commonwealth and has hosted the first Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting. In Asia-Pacific relations, Singapore was chair of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum in 2009. International relations benefits Singapore by providing forums for cooperation and resolving disputes, such as the successful resolution of a territorial dispute with Malaysia through the UN.

1. INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

12. WHY IS IT MORE BENEFICIAL THAN THE OTHER FORMS OF DIPLOMACY? Bilateral Relations Regional Relations However, disputes over territories or control of resources may still result in a war due to the absence of international talks , creating misunderstandings between countries. Furthermore, bilateral talks only helps countries to understand each other better and does not prevent weaker countries from being pushed around or ‘bullied’ by more powerful countries. However, it does not have any standing army and cannot take action against member countries who disobey international laws. Therefore, regional organizations such as ASEAN are often very slow in addressing issues. Countries can use it as a platform to discuss issues, but a common consensus is often not achieved in the shortest possible period of time due to the lack of power. This causes tension between countries to manifest and it affects the balance of peace in the region.

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