India and Singapore Elevate Ties to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership During Modi-Wong Meeting.
New Delhi:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong of Singapore held a pivotal meeting today, marking a significant milestone in bilateral relations. The meeting, which took place at Singapore’s Parliament House, began with a ceremonial welcome for Prime Minister Modi.
During their discussions, the leaders agreed to elevate the India-Singapore relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, enhancing both nations’ economic and strategic ties. This move is expected to bolster India’s Act East Policy and deepen bilateral cooperation.
The Prime Ministers reviewed the substantial progress in economic relations, with Singapore being a leading investor in India with approximately USD 160 billion in investments. They discussed expanding trade and investment flows, acknowledging the new opportunities created by India’s rapid growth.
The leaders also examined ongoing cooperation in various sectors, including defence, maritime domain awareness, education, AI, fintech, science and technology, and knowledge partnerships. They emphasized the need to strengthen connectivity and accelerate green corridor projects to enhance economic and people-to-people ties.
Highlighting the outcomes of the 2nd India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable held in August 2024, the leaders endorsed continued action in areas such as Advanced Manufacturing, Connectivity, Digitalization, Healthcare & Medicine, Skills Development, and Sustainability. They noted the importance of cooperation in semiconductors and emerging technologies as key to the future of bilateral relations.
Prime Minister Modi also announced the opening of India’s first Thiruvalluvar Cultural Centre in Singapore as part of the 60th anniversary celebrations of diplomatic relations in 2025. Additionally, both leaders discussed regional and global issues, including India-ASEAN relations and the Indo-Pacific vision.
