The oxygen of Asean

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Note the opening BANG using anecdote/analogy/metaphor of oxygen

As a region, South-east Asia was never pre-ordained for peace. It is by far the most diverse region of planet earth, with over 250 million Muslims, 150 million Christians, 150 million Buddhists, and millions of Confucianists, Taoists, Hindus and even communists in the mix.

It is true that Asean is a relatively weak organisation. It has none of the robust rules that tie together the European Union. Yet, paradoxically,.... the strength of Asean comes from its weakness. Because Asean is weak, everyone trusts it. 

Why is all this important to Singapore? No other country in the world has international trade that is 3.1 times the size of its gross national product. Our open economy needs to be surrounded by an ecosystem of peace and prosperity. Asean provides both.

Qns:

1. To what extent is it possible ‘to make the punishment fit the crime’?

2. How far is it possible for one country to forgive another for its past actions?

3. ‘Countries experiencing conflict should be left to sort out their own problems.’ How far do you agree?

4. How far should countries have relations with others whose human rights record is poor?