President Tharman Shanmugaratnam of Singapore received a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Thursday. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted the ceremony, marking the start of his State Visit to India. This visit coincides with the 60th anniversary of India-Singapore diplomatic ties.
Speaking after the ceremony, President Tharman praised India for recognizing Singapore’s independence in 1965. “India was among the first countries to support our independence. Since then, our relationship has grown immensely,” he said. He called the partnership between Singapore and India “natural” and highlighted their shared interests.
Tharman emphasized that Singapore is India’s largest investor. He noted the strength of defence ties and their continuous growth.
Tharman acknowledged the upgrade of relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2024. “We are exploring advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, and net-zero industrial parks,” he said. He stressed the need to skill workers for emerging industries.
He highlighted ongoing cooperation in digitalisation and sustainability. “Singapore fully supports India’s goal to become a developed country—Viksit Bharat 2047,” he added.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Tharman on Wednesday. They discussed semiconductors, industrial parks, skilling, and trade. Jaishankar said, “This visit will add momentum to our strategic partnership.”
Tharman will hold bilateral meetings with President Murmu and Prime Minister Modi. He is accompanied by a delegation of ministers, parliament members, and officials. After engagements in Delhi, he will visit Odisha on January 17-18.
The Ministry of External Affairs described India-Singapore ties as strong and built on trust and respect. The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has expanded cooperation in trade, technology, and defence.
Prime Minister Modi highlighted the strength of bilateral ties during his visit to Singapore in 2024. He noted potential collaboration in social investments and digitalisation.
Tharman’s visit aims to deepen cooperation in emerging areas and strengthen strategic ties between the two nations.
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