Australia-Signapore Bilateral Relations - Koala Diplomacy

Question 1

Background, dates

Answer 1

-Case study refers to the practice of the Australian government gifting or loaning koalas to other states as a symbol of friendship, goodwill, or to strengthen diplomatic relations
-In April 2015, Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop announced that four koalas will be loaned to Singapore for six months as a gesture of goodwill recognising 50 years since the establishment of domestic relations between Australia and Singapore

Question 2

Relevant power, FPI

Answer 2

-Cultural power
-Soft Power
-Diplomacy FPI

Question 3

Different Interpretations - K Shanmugam - Singapore Foreign Minister 2015

Answer 3

“Australia’s decision to entrust four of its cherished national icons to Singapore underscores the deep friendship between both countries”

Question 4

Different Interpretations - Julie Bishop (Australia Minister for foreign affairs 2015

Answer 4

“The loan symbolises the warm ties between Singapore and Australia and will further build on our long-standing constructive relationship”

Question 5

Effectiveness/ importance

Answer 5

-Very effective - good use of diplomacy, cultural power
-Not important in the grand scheme - low impact relative to say, national security policies

Question 6

Relative National Interest

Answer 6

-Increases regional relationships with Signapore