Transcript of Intervention by Second Minister for Foreign Affairs and Second Minister for Home Affairs Sim Ann at the Pre-CHOGM Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministerial Meeting (CFAMM), 3 November 2026

Excellencies,

Distinguished colleagues,

Let me begin by thanking Minister Greene and the government of Antigua and Barbuda for their warm hospitality and the excellent arrangements for [the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting] CHOGM 2026.

I wish to make three points on how Commonwealth members can collectively support the rules-based multilateral order at a time when it is under severe strain.

First, we must reaffirm our shared commitment to the rules-based multilateral system. The Commonwealth has a strong collective interest in upholding the UN Charter and international law. For small States, which constitute 33 of our 56 members, international law is fundamental to safeguarding our sovereignty, independence and security. We must therefore remain steadfast in upholding the UN Charter and international law, including the sovereign equality of States, respect for territorial integrity, and the peaceful settlement of disputes. These principles must be applied consistently, not selectively.

We must also ensure that the multilateral system keeps pace with new challenges, such as climate change and the risks of artificial intelligence. As new rules and norms are developed, the Commonwealth can help ensure that the perspectives and interests of our diverse membership are taken into account.

Second, the Commonwealth can help bridge differences and build consensus. Our membership is diverse, but we have demonstrated that we can find common ground on issues of shared concern.

At CHOGM 2024 in Samoa, Commonwealth Leaders adopted the Apia Commonwealth Ocean Declaration, committing to collective action on ocean protection, sustainable ocean management and the challenges faced by small island developing States. Importantly, the Declaration also affirmed the preservation of maritime zones in the face of climate change-related sea-level rise.

We have since seen further progress on this issue at the United Nations. Last month, the General Assembly adopted the Declaration on Sea-Level Rise. Commonwealth members can continue to amplify our collective influence and advance shared priorities at the United Nations and other international fora.

We should also continue to help fellow Commonwealth members participate effectively in multilateral processes.

Third, we should actively contribute to the institutions that uphold international law whenever we can. In this regard, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) plays a vital role in the peaceful settlement of disputes between States and in upholding the international rule of law.

Singapore has nominated Ambassador Rena Lee, for election taking place in New York tomorrow, as a Judge of the ICJ. She has a distinguished record in international law, including chairing the negotiations that led to the adoption by consensus of the landmark [Marine Biodiversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction] BBNJ Agreement, which many of my colleagues are familiar with. Her candidature reflects Singapore's longstanding commitment to international law and our belief that all States, large and small, can contribute meaningfully to shaping and strengthening the international institutions on which we all depend. We hope that fellow Commonwealth members will support her candidature.

Excellencies,

The rules-based international order cannot be taken for granted. With 56 members spanning five regions, we can help build support for the rules and institutions that protect us all.

Singapore looks forward to working with fellow members to achieve these important goals.

Thank you.

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS

SINGAPORE

3 NOVEMBER 2026