Singapore has been a strong proponent of diplomacy since its independence, often playing the role of "super connector" between the west and east. However, it did fall out with China over its recognition of the so-called "South China Sea arbitration", which was unilaterally initiated by the Philippines in 2013.  America's departure from the Transpacific Partnership Agreement is seen as a blow for Singapore, especially as it's been going through some tough economic times of late.  Meanwhile, with so much uncertainty surrounding US foreign policy in recent months, Singapore has been drawing closer to China.