Prime Minister Narendra Modi warmly welcomed Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to India, marking Wong’s first visit since taking office.
PM Modi noted the special significance of the year as both countries celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations.
The two leaders reaffirmed the importance of their partnership, which extends well beyond diplomacy, rooted in shared values and a mutual commitment to peace and prosperity.
PM Modi described Singapore as an ‘important pillar’ of India’s Act East Policy, emphasising that both nations will work closely with ASEAN to promote peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific region.
Reflecting on his visit to Singapore in 2024, he recalled the elevation of bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which has since accelerated cooperation and dialogue.
“Today, Singapore is our largest trade partner in Southeast Asia, and has made significant investments in India,” PM Modi noted, highlighting the robust economic ties.
Strengthening Defence and People-to-People Links
The Prime Minister pointed to continuously strengthening defence ties between the two countries and praised the deep, vibrant people-to-people connections.
He underscored that India and Singapore have developed a detailed roadmap for the future of their partnership, focusing not only on traditional areas but also expanding into new sectors.
“In keeping with changing times, cooperation will extend to advanced manufacturing, green shipping, skilling, civil, nuclear, and urban water management,” PM Modi said, signalling a forward-looking approach.
He hailed technology and innovation as ‘strong pillars’ of the bilateral relationship, announcing plans to enhance collaboration in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and other digital technologies.
PM Modi also cited UPI and PayNow as successful examples of digital connectivity between the two countries, announcing that 13 new Indian banks have joined this network.
The Prime Minister announced that India and Singapore will review the Bilateral Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement alongside the Free Trade Agreement with ASEAN within a set timeframe, ensuring continued economic integration and growth.
Joint Inauguration of JN Port-PSA Mumbai Terminal Phase II
Both leaders jointly inaugurated Phase II of the Jawaharlal Nehru Port-PSA Mumbai Terminal, symbolising the growing maritime cooperation between the two nations.
PM Modi revealed that Singapore will assist in establishing a National Centre of Excellence for Skilling in Chennai, which will focus on preparing skilled manpower for advanced manufacturing.
He highlighted Gujarat’s GIFT City as a new financial bridge connecting the stock markets of India and Singapore.
He also pointed to the Semiconductor Ecosystem Partnership Agreement signed last year as a key milestone, with Singapore’s active participation in India’s Semicon Conference marking a significant step forward in research and development collaboration.
PM Modi emphasised the role of Indian states in bilateral ties, recalling recent visits by Singapore’s President Tharman and Chief Ministers from Odisha, Telangana, Assam, and Andhra Pradesh to Singapore.
These exchanges underscore the multifaceted nature of the partnership, involving both national and regional actors.
PM Modi’s remarks conveyed a clear vision: India and Singapore are set to deepen their strategic partnership, embracing emerging sectors and technologies while strengthening economic and cultural ties.
This partnership, grounded in shared values and mutual interests, aims to promote peace, prosperity, and regional stability well into the future.
Also Read: EAM Jaishankar Meets Singapore PM Wong; Expresses Confidence In Stronger Bilateral Ties
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