Treat Singapore as equal, Goh tells neighbours

By Amit Baruah

SINGAPORE, JAN. 26. An assertive Singapore Prime Minister, Mr. Goh Chok Tong, has said that relations with neighbouring countries had to be based on the principle of ``sovereign equality''.

In comments published in The Straits Times today, Mr. Goh said: ``If we are subservient, obsequious, jump the moment others say jump, then we will not have an image problem. But I say, no, why should I? We are a sovereign country, we are your equal. And let's talk on the basis of sovereign equality.

``Well, there is an image problem with them (Singapore's neighbours). They think, because of the way we handle things, we are not what they want us to be... well, so, if you don't behave like a younger brother, you've got an image problem.''

Asked how Singapore would manage its relations with the neighbours, he replied: ``One, we are a small country. Two, we are regarded as a predominantly Chinese country. Three, we are wealthier than our neighbours on a per capita basis.

``And, because we are small, because we are perceived to be rich, it's a difficult relationship to handle because, when their countries have problems, they expect us to be generous with funds,'' he said.

Underlining the fact that these funds come from the taxes of the people as opposed to oil or other natural resources, Mr. Goh said: ``We can't just be pumping aid to the poor in our neighbourhood. So, sometimes, we are seen by our neighbours as not being helpful enough.''

Singapore, Mr. Goh said, would respond in a dignified manner to the allegations made against it. ``There is no point giving blow for blow. Both sides cannot win that way. So, over time, we do hope our neighbours will begin to understand that Singapore is different and we react in a rational manner.

``And I hope Singaporeans understand too that when we are quiet, give a very soft reply, we are not weak. Our replies are soft but we are not weak... if you thump your chest louder than the other side, I think the controversies will go on for a long time because the other side too must thump even louder than you do,'' Mr. Goh explained.

Asked about some Singaporeans wondering whether neighbouring countries had a point when they said Singapore was profit- oriented and calculating, the Prime Minister replied: ``They are right, up to a point. We are profit-oriented, we are calculating, we are logical, we are rational, but that doesn't mean we are selfish.

``... We would put $5 billions for investments into, say Indonesia, if the scheme will work. And if the $5 billions will, over time, be recovered, I would say, do it.

``But, if it is just a matter of giving grants and financial aid which may not work, we will not do it. It's not just Indonesia which I'm talking about. We are under pressure from the international community to do more, to help the poor in the world. It's not a new phenomenon, not a new pressure,'' Mr. Goh added.

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Section  : International
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