04 Nov 2021 09:37AM
(Updated: 04 Nov 2021 10:12AM)
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"Taiwan goes to the heart of the political legitimacy of the leader, of the party and it's a deep red line. I can think of no scenario (in) which there are winners if there is actual physical confrontation over Taiwan," Dr Ng said.
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Speaking to reporters after his speech on Thursday, Dr Ng reiterated that "all sides lose" if there is physical confrontation over Taiwan.
"Not only US and China. Southeast Asia will be in turmoil, I think the rest of the world too," he said.
Beyond the issue of Taiwan, Dr Ng said the US' current "preoccupation with China is at a heightened level" not seen in his decade as defence minister.
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"So to Singapore and the ASEAN countries, my Prime Minister has said none of the countries want to choose (between US and China)," he said.
"Why should I choose? Both have benefitted me and there is a strategic rivalry. Can this strategic rivalry continue with me continuing to still benefit from both countries?"
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapor...en-2290256