C2 Ministerial Dialogue 2026
On 25 Mar 2026, Hwa Chong Institution had the privilege of welcoming Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan for a C2 Ministerial Dialogue with students. Organised by the Ministry of Education, the Dialogue with Political Office Holders series provides students with a valuable platform to engage meaningfully with national leaders, gain insights from their experiences, and raise questions on pertinent issues. Amid current geopolitical tensions and global challenges, the dialogue was especially timely, giving students a rare opportunity to understand key international developments and the foreign policy considerations shaping Singapore’s place in the world.
The session opened with an address by Dr Balakrishnan, who spoke about the realities of a rapidly evolving geopolitical environment marked by rising tensions among major powers. He shared his perspectives on what Singaporeans should expect in this new era, how Singapore is repositioning in response to emerging global uncertainties, and why it is important for young people to remain adaptable, informed, and resilient. Dr Balakrishnan also encouraged students to think critically and to consider how they can prepare themselves to contribute meaningfully to Singapore. His remarks underscored the importance of staying globally aware while remaining grounded in Singapore’s values, interests, and long-term priorities.
Following the address, Dr Balakrishnan engaged students in a dialogue session, responding to a range of questions related to international relations and Singapore’s role on the world stage. The discussion centred on Singapore’s stance amidst recent geopolitical tensions, how the nation navigates complex relationships between major powers, and how a small state like Singapore maintains relevance, agency, and strategic clarity in an increasingly uncertain world.
The dialogue was a valuable opportunity for students to hear directly from Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and to gain deeper insights into the thinking behind the nation’s foreign policy. More importantly, it invited students to reflect on the responsibilities of citizenship in an interconnected world, and on the role they may one day play in helping Singapore navigate the challenges and opportunities of the future.
Hwa Chong Institution sincerely thanks Dr Vivian Balakrishnan for taking the time to engage our students and for sharing his valuable perspectives with candour and generosity. His visit was greatly appreciated, and the dialogue was a meaningful and enriching experience for all present.
