The role of soft power in S'pore's foreign policy

Singapore

A PLATE of chicken rice or a bowl of laksa served in the capitals of the world can do more for Singapore's foreign policy than most people think, Member of Parliament Sitoh Yih Pin (Potong Pasir) said on Thursday, kicking off the debate on the expenditure plans for the Foreign Affairs ministry.

His point was that Singapore may be small, but that its "soft power" - from the popularity of its cuisine, its tourist spots, its hospitals and its connectivity, for instance - should not be underestimated for its effectiveness in winning foreign friends and shaping global developments in its favour.