We would welcome the user states to make a contribution to the security of the Malacca Straits. But of course, it must be respectful of international law, as well as the sovereignty of the littoral states," said Teo Chee Hean, Singapore's Defense Minister.
Earlier, the Indian Defense Minister Pranab Mukherjee said that India, whose trade links with Southeast Asia are rapidly expanding, is more than willing to help protect the strait.
Singapore on Saturday welcomed India's offer to help safeguard the Malacca Straits.
It also made it clear the regional superpower must respect the sovereignty of the three countries along the waterway, which is crucial to maritime trade.
"We would welcome the user states to make a contribution to the security of the Malacca Straits. But of course, it must be respectful of international law, as well as the sovereignty of the littoral states," said Teo Chee Hean, Singapore's Defense Minister.
Earlier, the Indian Defense Minister Pranab Mukherjee said that India, whose trade links with Southeast Asia are rapidly expanding, is more than willing to help protect the strait.
The Malacca straits is bordered by Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia.
Mukherjee said India's contribution would not impose on the adjoining countries, addressing fears that it could use its navy to assert its dominance in the region.
The three adjoining countries have already rejected a US offer to deploy troops and ships to help secure the strait, through which 50,000 ships pass every year, with half of the world's oil trade and a third of global commerce. (AP)
