No idea why you’ve been hearing about vehicles stuck in Hong Kong? We give you a summary of what’s happened and why it’s important.
Singapore has been a country of relative peace that prefers to engage in diplomatic relations that ensure mutual benefit for either party. So far, we’ve been largely successful in avoiding disputes to remain as a “neutral” country. Occasionally, Singapore grazes international headlines with our academic performance or the haze situations, but we hardly make ripples when it comes to political issues.
Recently, Singapore has been in the spotlight with multiple headlines concerning “Hong Kong”, “China”, “Terrex” and “Taiwan”. All of which may have a larger impact than you think.
How it started
The incident dates back to November last year, when nine Terrex Infantry Carrier Vehicles were “taken” by Hongkong’s shipping firm APL en-route back to Singapore after a military exercise in Taiwan. While no official reason had been revealed, some have speculated that it could be China’s response to Singapore’s military links with Taiwan. Reports have remained relatively low during from the start of its seizure on 23 November to 23 Dec. Official stances from both parties were only announced on Dec 23.
Why is it a big deal
Media sources have consistently characterised the incident as one that concerns proper legal process. However, the Terrex issue is more than just law and order. This situation exposes the tenuous situation between China and Taiwan, while putting Singapore in a political balancing act.
“One China”
China warned Singapore to “be cautious in their remarks and actions,” during at a Chinese ministry briefing, according to a report by The South China Morning Post. This incident treads the edge of potential talk regarding “One China”, which would politicise the situation. Uncertain and inconsistent involvement might provoke similar reactions, like when Trump engaged with Tsai, the President of Taiwan. This incident might fall into the trap of geopolitics and exacerbate into a deeper problem.
“Big bully”
Mr Low Thia Khiang of Aljunied JRC had described China as a bully; flexing their political muscles” in light of their massive growth. Should Singapore stand up to its might and involve more decisively or let the “big bully” temper with us?
What’s happening now
After a series of conversations between Singapore and Hong Kong (reportedly at least 3), the situation has seemingly de-escalated. The official stance, in this case, refers to official and firm call-out for the return of the vehicles, reportedly by Defense Minister and PM Lee. SAF and APL have been in constant negotiations to expedite the return of the SAF’s Terrex ICVs.
Hongkong had corresponded accordingly after receiving PM Lee’s letter which requested for the “immediate return” of the SAF vehicles. The Government will “handle the seizure … according to city’s law”.
Singapore had repeatedly reaffirmed the need to stay within the legal arena and “avoid politicising this and avoid megaphone diplomacy”. Megaphone diplomacy (where negotiations are held through announcements and press releases) will create “more light than heat”. After all, Singapore-China relationship is a “long-standing, multifaceted and mutually beneficial one”.
Fitting into the general trend?
Singapore, for the most part, has had a good track record when it comes to abiding international law and pursuing international cooperation. This incident will presumably not taint that reputation. By downplaying the potential politicking between Singapore and China, the Terrex Incident is symbolic of the neutral and affirmative means in which the government engages in; causing just enough ripples in the water, but not enough to start a storm.
