Singapore wields ‘quiet diplomacy’ in minister’s surprise visit to Indonesia amid haze tensions
Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan’s trip is consistent with Singapore’s measured approach in dealing with its larger neighbour, analysts say
Quick Look
Singapore Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan made a surprise visit to Indonesia to meet President Prabowo Subianto, aiming to de-escalate tensions following diplomatic friction over transboundary haze and local protests in Jakarta.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
Singapore and Indonesia have experienced terse exchanges regarding regional haze, leading to protests in Indonesia.
Singapore’s decision to send its top diplomat to Indonesia on a surprise visit, following days of terse exchanges over a regional haze, underscores a bid to defuse growing tensions and seek a direct channel to President Prabowo Subianto.
Analysts say Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan’s trip reflected his country’s preference for measured diplomacy amid rising nationalistic rhetoric in Indonesia, with the city state also mindful of containing any “negative fallout” as Jakarta grapples with local protests against the haze.
Balakrishnan met Prabowo at his private residence on Wednesday, a day after both states pledged deeper collaboration in tackling transboundary haze.
Open Questions
- What specific measures will be taken to mitigate the haze?
- How will the public protests in Indonesia influence future policy?
