The Singaporean government has issued a travel advisory for citizens visiting China, citing the potential for arbitrary enforcement of local laws and the risk of arbitrary detention. The advisory, issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, comes amid rising tensions between the two countries and follows similar warnings from other countries, including Canada and the United States.
The advisory notes that Singaporean citizens have been subject to surveillance and harassment while in China, and advises citizens to exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to the country. It also advises citizens to be aware of the risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws, and to consider the risk of arbitrary detention in China.
The situation has been escalating in recent months, with China detaining several Singaporean citizens on charges of espionage and other alleged crimes. In addition, China has imposed sanctions on several Singaporean entities over their support for Taiwan and other issues.
The travel advisory also advises Singaporean businesses operating in China to be aware of the risks and to take appropriate measures to protect themselves and their employees. The government encourages Singaporean companies to review their operations in China and to consider alternative options if necessary.
The travel advisory comes as relations between Singapore and China have become increasingly strained in recent months. The two countries have a long history of economic and cultural ties, but disagreements over issues such as Taiwan, Hong Kong, and the South China Sea have led to a deterioration in relations.
As the situation continues to evolve, Singaporean citizens are advised to monitor developments and to exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to China. The government also encourages all Singaporeans in China to register with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and to subscribe to receive updates and alerts from the government.