Minister Edwin Tong to Visit New York to Reaffirm Singapore's Commitment to International Law and Strengthen Legal Partnerships
28 October 2026 Posted in Press releases
1. Minister for Law and Second Minister for Home Affairs Mr Edwin Tong SC will make an official visit to New York from 28 October to 4 November 2026 for International Law Week and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) elections.
2. Minister Tong will make an address at the International Law Week on 28 October, setting out Singapore’s position on the merits of an international rules-based order. He will also deliver Singapore’s statement at the United Nations General Assembly debate on the annual report of the ICJ on 29 October. Both these engagements underscore Singapore’s support for the proper functioning of international law and the institutions that uphold it, amid heightened geopolitical tensions.
3. In addition, Minister Tong will also deliver a statement on behalf of the Oceans Four – Fiji, Jamaica, Malta and Singapore – at the United Nations Security Council High-Level Open Debate on 29 October titled “Emerging Technologies and Maritime Security: Implications for Peace and Security”. The debate will explore international cooperation to harness the benefits of emerging technologies for maritime security and address the risks they pose.
4. Apart from the above, Minister Tong will also be attending the 2026 elections for ICJ Judges which will take place on 3 November at the United Nations. Singapore has nominated Ambassador for International Law Rena Lee for election as an ICJ Judge for the 2027–2036 term. Her candidature reflects Singapore’s commitment to contributing to the Court’s work in the peaceful settlement of disputes between States.
5. Beyond his engagements at the United Nations, Minister Tong will meet various counterparts at the United Nations, to discuss international developments and strengthen legal cooperation. He will also meet US law firms and Singapore lawyers based in New York to deepen professional ties and explore opportunities for collaboration with Singapore’s legal sector.
6. Minister Tong said: “Singapore advocates for an international order where sovereignty is respected, trade can flow and disputes can be resolved peacefully. We must all play our part to sustain the rule of law, strengthen its application, and contribute to the institutions that uphold international law. Rena Lee’s candidature for the ICJ reflects Singapore’s deep commitment to this.”
MINISTRY OF LAW
28 OCTOBER 2026
Last updated on 28 October 2026