The Republic is not ready for now to allow its people to hold dual citizenship as this could dilute their identity, said Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean in Parliament on Thursday. "Allowing Singaporeans to retain or acquire a second citizenship is unlikely to enhance identity but could dilute it," he said in response to a question by SMU Assistant Professor of Law and NMP Eugene Tan. Assistant Prof Tan had asked what the preconditions were before Singapore was prepared to accept dual citizenship as well as the implications for Singaporean identity and national service. In his reply, DPM Teo, who is also the Home Affairs Minister, said it was important that Singaporeans had a "long-term commitment" to building a future together in the country along with their fellow citizens. Assistant Professor Tan later asked if Singapore should keep an "open mind" regarding the issue of dual citizenship, given the rising number of international marriages in the country. He made the point that allowing dual nationality could help children from such marriages develop a stronger connection with Singapore. DPM Teo agreed with Assistant Prof Tan's point, adding that while Singapore would not allow this for the time being, "we should always keep an open mind".