According to a Chinese analyst who is on the know, the Terrexes which are now detained in the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department, will not be returned to Singapore unless two conditions are met.
First, the Singapore government has got to explain why the sensitive cargo was transiting through their port; and secondly, an assurance that Singapore will adhere to the ‘One China’ policy.
By calling Singapore to adhere strictly to the ‘One China’ policy, the Chinese government may be calling on Singapore to stop military exchanges with Taiwan. The People’s republic of China considers Taiwan a renegade province.
In the midst of mounting pressure from China about its military exchanges with Taiwan, Singapore’s Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen had emphasised that Singapore will continue to train overseas.
He said that Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) overseas training exercises have “never been secret”, and that “people know where we train openly.” He added, “any training matters between us and other countries are bilateral” and that “SAF will continue to train overseas based on existing agreements between countries.”
China in the meantime has released a White Paper on its policies on Asia-Pacific Security Co-operation. The White Paper explained the Chinese concept of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security to achieving peace and stability in the region.
The Paper noted the role that major countries in the region play in maintaining peace and development, and urged “small- and medium-sized countries need not and should not take sides among big countries.”
It asked them to reject the Cold War mentality, respect others’ legitimate interests and concerns and to pursue positive interactions.
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