How are India and Singapore Enhancing Cooperation in AI, Quantum, and Digital Technologies?

New Delhi, Sep 4 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that technology and innovation are vital pillars of the relationship between India and Singapore, as he declared a mutual commitment to strengthen collaboration in AI, quantum, and various other digital technologies.

During a press conference with his Singaporean counterpart, Lawrence Wong, after their discussions, PM Modi highlighted UPI and PayNow as exemplary instances of digital integration. He shared that both countries will review the Bilateral Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement and the Free Trade Agreement with ASEAN in a timely manner.

"Technology and innovation are the strong pillars of our partnership. We have decided to enhance cooperation in AI, quantum, and other digital technologies. The space sector agreement today marks a new chapter in our collaboration in space science. We plan to organize the next round of the India-Singapore Hackathon later this year to connect our youth with their talents. It's also exciting that 13 new Indian banks have joined UPI and PayNow today," he stated.

Welcoming Prime Minister Wong warmly, PM Modi said: "I extend a warm welcome to Prime Minister Wong on his inaugural visit to India since taking office. This visit is particularly significant as we celebrate the 60th anniversary of our diplomatic relations this year."

He reflected on his visit to Singapore in 2024, where both nations upgraded their connection to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and identified key sectors for future cooperation.

He referred to Singapore as an essential pillar of India's Act East policy, asserting that both nations will collaborate with ASEAN to promote their shared vision for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

"Last year, during my visit to Singapore, we elevated our relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. In the past year, our dialogue and cooperation have intensified. Today, Singapore stands as our largest trading partner in Southeast Asia, and significant investments from Singapore into India have increased. Our defense ties are continuously strengthening, and the cultural exchange between our people is vibrant and deep. We have now laid out a detailed roadmap for our future collaboration, which will extend beyond traditional sectors to include advanced manufacturing, green shipping, skill development, civil nuclear energy, and urban water management," he added.

He noted that relations between India and Singapore transcend mere diplomacy. "This partnership is purpose-driven, rooted in shared values, guided by mutual interests, and focused on a vision of peace, progress, and prosperity."

"We have agreed to review the Bilateral Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement and our Free Trade Agreement with ASEAN in a timely manner to enhance mutual trade. Our states will also play key roles in India-Singapore relations. When President Tharman (Shanmugaratnam) visited India in January, he toured Odisha. In the past year, the Chief Ministers of Odisha, Telangana, Assam, and Andhra Pradesh have visited Singapore. GIFT City in Gujarat has become a new conduit for our stock markets. The Semiconductor Ecosystem Partnership Agreement, signed last year, has also redirected our research and development efforts. The active participation of Singaporean companies in the Semicon India Conference was noteworthy. Singapore will assist in establishing a National Centre of Excellence for Skilling in Chennai, aimed at developing skilled manpower in advanced manufacturing," he remarked.

PM Modi expressed gratitude to the Singaporean Prime Minister for his government's support in India's battle against terrorism, stating: "We share common concerns regarding terrorism. It is the responsibility of all humanitarian nations to combat terrorism together. Following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, I sincerely thank Prime Minister Wong and the Government of Singapore for their condolences to the people of India and for their solidarity in our fight against terrorism."