Singapore Voices ‘Grave Concern’ Over South China Sea Tensions

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Vivian Balakrishnan in Brasilia on April 17.Photographer: Andressa Anholete/Bloomberg

Singapore’s top diplomat expressed “grave concern” over altercations in the South China Sea following a near collision between Chinese and Philippine vessels in the highly-contested region.

Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said his government wants all nations, including superpowers, to work together to ensure “free access and opportunities” in Southeast Asia and its sea lanes.