Touchy balancing ties between US and China, Singapore businesses have to pitch in

The Association of South-east Asian Nations (Asean) has to come to terms with a resurgent China (“Asean faces more risks as summit season ends”; Nov 26).

Singapore, in its entrenched strategic partnership with the United States, is in the most difficult position.

Ever more so going forward, its policy of balancing its relationships between the two increasingly antagonistic great powers — long a strategic advantage — is turning into a tight-rope walk in high winds.

The ascendent fourth-generation leadership has a full and heavy plate of challenges.

Policy action alone will not be an adequate lever.

The Singapore economy has to stay relevant and Singapore companies, not just foreign direct investment (FDI), have to grow and add value to the economies of China and the US as well its regional neighbours.

Such interdependencies and practical positive contributions will help to undergird its negotiating position and give a measure of strength to its voice and in gaining access to key offices of power such as the presidencies of both the US and China.