India-Singapore Strengthen Ties with Focus on Futuristic Sectors
In a significant development for bilateral relations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with the President of Singapore, Tharman Shanmugaratnam, on Thursday evening. The two leaders engaged in discussions aimed at enhancing the India-Singapore Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, focusing on “futuristic sectors” such as semiconductors, digitalisation, skilling, connectivity, and more.
Prime Minister Modi shared insights from the meeting, highlighting the importance of expanding cooperation in industry, infrastructure, and culture. “Earlier this evening, I met the President of Singapore, Mr. Tharman Shanmugaratnam. We discussed the full range of the India-Singapore Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” Modi wrote on X, the social media platform.
This meeting marks a pivotal moment in the two countries’ growing bilateral ties. It is part of a broader push to expand collaboration in sectors that are integral to both nations’ future prosperity.
Ceremonial Welcome and the 60th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations
President Tharman Shanmugaratnam’s visit to India, his first as President of Singapore, comes at a significant time, as the two countries are celebrating the 60th anniversary of their diplomatic relations. Upon arrival in New Delhi, President Shanmugaratnam was given a ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhavan by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Modi.
In his remarks to the press following the ceremonial reception, President Shanmugaratnam expressed gratitude for India’s early recognition of Singapore’s independence in 1965, an act that laid the foundation for the strong bilateral ties that have since flourished. “We will never forget that India was one of the first few countries to recognise Singapore’s independence in 1965, and since then, our relationship has grown by leaps and bounds,” he said.
He emphasized the complementary nature of the partnership, noting that despite Singapore’s smaller size and India’s vast expanse, both countries have continuously found ways to work together in mutual interests. The Singaporean President also underscored that Singapore remains India’s largest investor, with defense and economic cooperation continuing to strengthen.
Digitalisation, Sustainability, and Beyond
The discussions between the two leaders underscored the growing alignment between India and Singapore in critical areas such as digitalisation and sustainability. Both countries are working on expanding collaboration in these sectors, as well as on other strategic initiatives like industrial parks, skilling, and semiconductor development.
Earlier, Singapore’s President met with India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, who expressed optimism about the future of the bilateral partnership. “Delighted to call on President Tharman Shanmugaratnam of Singapore today. We discussed our cooperation in semiconductors, industrial parks, skilling, digitalisation, and trade development. Confident that his State visit will add new momentum to our comprehensive strategic partnership,” Jaishankar shared on X.
The focus on semiconductors reflects both nations’ desire to tap into the global digital economy and bolster technological capabilities, which are seen as vital for economic growth and national security in the coming years.
Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation
President Shanmugaratnam’s visit is accompanied by a high-level delegation, including ministers, parliament members, and officials. He is scheduled to hold further bilateral meetings with both President Murmu and Prime Minister Modi later in the day. After his engagements in New Delhi, the Singapore President will visit Odisha on January 17-18.
The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized the importance of the relationship, underscoring that it is founded on mutual trust, respect, and a shared commitment to cooperation. The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which was elevated during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Singapore in September 2024, reflects the depth and potential of the relationship between the two nations.
Looking Ahead
The evolving ties between India and Singapore reflect a broader geopolitical shift where countries in the Indo-Pacific region are looking for ways to collaborate on a wide range of issues. From technological advancements to economic growth, the partnership between India and Singapore is expected to set an example for other countries in the region and beyond.
As both nations continue to strengthen their ties in areas like digitalisation, semiconductors, and infrastructure, the future of India-Singapore relations looks poised for even greater success, with both leaders expressing their intent to further deepen cooperation for mutual benefit.
