ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY

“The reflections in this book, offered by experienced Singaporean negotiators who have been at the frontline of regional and multilateral trade talks, vividly convey the process and dynamics of trade negotiations; they provide fascinating insights for any policy maker and negotiator working in the field.”

“Singapore has faced the challenge of globalization with both astute strategy and plucky self-reliance. As part of Singapore's strategy, it has developed a cadre of trade policy experts with extraordinary skill and experience. This remarkable volume brings together a group of these experts to offer the benefits of that skill and experience to the rest of the world. This essential book fascinates and informs, but also will play a critical role in preparing trade policy professionals from around the world.”

“Singapore has made a huge contribution to the development of the multilateral trading system, way beyond what might be envisaged from a nation of its relatively modest proportions. Why? Because strong multilateral rules tend to dilute the ‘law of the jungle’ and promote a more level playing field. How? Read this book and you will find out.”

“With its mix of technical articles and personal narratives of the negotiation processes, this volume is an invaluable resource for those interested in economic diplomacy and multilateral legal negotiations.”

“This collection covers the whole range of international trade policy, bringing together the experience of the past with the perspectives of the future. It is a testimony to the great importance of smaller players in working for solutions and improvements in the multilateral context. Singapore is in the front row of the ‘friends of the system’, and the multilateral system is fortunate to have such friends.”

“The book is well worthwhile for readers with an interest in Singapore' trade diplomacy. It provides a valuable set of accounts that shed light on both the multilateral processes that govern the WTO and the dynamics of bilateral bargaining in preferential trade agreements.”