Although Singapore is a small state, its sovereignty and territorial integrity — the two primary markers of independence — are secure. It has struck up expansive and intensive relations with the great powers of the US, China, Russia and (incipiently) India while deepening its ties with its Southeast Asian neighbours both bilaterally and through Asean.
In a world where small nations get devoured by bigger ones, Singapore did not disappear. That — and its astounding economic growth — is Singapore’s main achievement during the 60 years of its independence, which it will celebrate on Aug 9.
The foundations and solid institutions are in place, but will they hold up in the face of the future? There are reasons to believe so.
