Since independence in 1965, Singapore has not only survived but also thrived on the back of a strategy of making the world as its hinterland. On July 27, Singapore and Australia signed two agreements to ensure both sides meet mutual needs in essential goods and defence supplies. In a win-win deal, Australia supplies liquified petroleum gas to Singapore while the republic refines petroleum ore for Australia. Even as Singapore, the Asean chair in 2027, looks further afield, its leaders have taken steps to strengthen ties with new Asean member, Timor Leste. PM Wong noted that since 2022, the republic has helped train Timorese officials to take part in ASEAN meetings.