Number: RS20490
Title: Singapore: Background and U.S. Relations
Authors: Emma Chanlett-Avery, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division 
Abstract: A former colonial island trading and military outpost of the far-flung British Empire, the tiny Republic of Singapore has transformed itself into a modern Asian nation and a major player in the global economy, though it still largely restricts political freedoms in the name of maintaining economic growth. Singapore's heavy dependence on international trade makes regional stability and the free flow of goods and services essential to its existence. As a result, the island nation is a firm supporter of both U.S. international trade policy and the U.S. security role in Asia. The U.S.-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (FTA) went into effect in January 2004.
Pages: 7
Date: December 18, 2008