Chan Chun Sing: Constructive Dialogue and Decisive Action Critical Amidst Turbulence

Minister for Defence Mr Chan Chun Sing delivered the special address at the 14th International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) Shangri-La Dialogue (SLD) Sherpa Meeting yesterday. Held from 18 to 20 January 2026 at the Shangri-La Hotel, the Sherpa Meeting provides an inter-sessional platform for delegates to engage in frank discussions on current defence and security issues ahead of the annual SLD.

Addressing an audience of senior defence and military officials and academics, Mr Chan highlighted the importance of platforms like the Sherpa Meeting in these turbulent times. He emphasised that such forums, along with the upcoming SLD, are critical for constructive dialogue and decisive action. He said, "This is a difficult period. This is a period of profound change. But this is not a period of hopelessness. Even in a fragmented world, all states, including smaller ones, retain agency and responsibility. We can reinforce what works, adapt what no longer does, and shape new norms for the challenges ahead. The only way we lose that agency, is if we fail to exercise its".

This year's SLD Sherpa Meeting was participated by approximately 85 government and non-government delegates from 33 countries, regional groupings and international organisations. Deputy Secretary (Policy) Brigadier-General Frederick Choo also spoke at the fourth session on cooperative solutions for hybrid threats in Asia. Singapore will host the 23rd SLD from 29 to 31 May 2026.

More Resources:

Speech by Minister for Defence Mr Chan Chun Sing at the 14th IISS Shangri-La Dialogue Sherpa Meeting Special Address on 19 Jan 2026