Taylor Swift emerged as the center of attention at an Asian summit on Tuesday as Singapore's leader stood firm in defense of his country's exclusive concert deal with the global pop sensation.

The tiny island nation of Singapore, a prominent member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), hosted a three-day summit focusing on critical issues like the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar and conflicts in the South China Sea. However, it was Swift's name that dominated conversations as questions arose regarding Singapore's exclusive agreement with her for the Eras Tour.

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong found himself facing inquiries on the sidelines of the summit about the controversial deal, which restricts Swift from performing her Eras Tour anywhere else in Southeast Asia. Singapore's deal with Swift has sparked discontent among some neighboring countries, who argue that they are being deprived of the economic benefits that Swift's concerts typically bring to host nations.

Swift's Eras Tour, which includes six concerts scheduled from March 2nd to 9th in Singapore, has a significant economic impact. Last year, the tour reportedly surpassed $1 billion in revenue, with its film adaptation quickly climbing to the top spot at the box office, becoming the highest-grossing concert film to date.

In response to the queries, Prime Minister Lee confirmed on Tuesday that Swift was offered "certain incentives" in return for choosing Singapore as the exclusive Southeast Asian destination for her tour. He defended the deal during a joint news conference with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who proudly identifies as a "Swiftie" and whose Spotify Wrapped list for 2023 ranked Taylor Swift as his second most-streamed artist.

Albanese, hosting the summit in Melbourne to commemorate Australia's 50th anniversary as ASEAN's first external partner, echoed Lee's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of fostering cultural exchanges and partnerships with global icons like Swift.

The debate over Swift's exclusive concert deal underscores the complex intersection of culture, economics, and geopolitics in the ASEAN region, as countries vie for opportunities to showcase their cities as premier destinations for international events and entertainment.