Strengthening Strategic Alliances: Singapore President's Visit to India

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Strengthening Strategic Alliances: Singapore President's Visit to India

Synopsis

Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam's State Visit to India marks a significant moment as both nations celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations. The visit aims to strengthen ties and discussions will focus on enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors.

Key Takeaways

  • Singapore President's inaugural visit to India.
  • 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
  • Discussions with President Droupadi Murmu.
  • Meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
  • Focus on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

New Delhi, Jan 14 (NationPress) Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam arrived in New Delhi on Tuesday evening for a State Visit - his inaugural trip to India in his presidential capacity - as both nations commence the celebration of 60 years of diplomatic ties.

The visiting Head of State was welcomed at the airport by Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada.

During his stay from January 14-18, Shanmugaratnam is set to engage in talks with President Droupadi Murmu, who will also host a banquet in his honor.

Accompanied by a high-ranking delegation that includes ministers, parliament members, and officials, he will also confer with Prime Minister Narendra Modi following his ceremonial reception at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhawan on Thursday.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and various other Indian dignitaries are scheduled to meet President Tharman on Wednesday, and he will also be visiting Odisha from January 17-18.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued a statement noting, 'India and Singapore have a strong framework of cooperation founded on a rich tradition of friendship, trust, and mutual respect. President Tharman's visit is anticipated to further enhance bilateral relations, which were elevated to the status of Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's visit to Singapore in September 2024.'

Prime Minister Modi has recently commended the advancements achieved in bilateral collaboration across numerous progressive sectors.

'My visit to Singapore has been extraordinarily productive. It will undoubtedly invigorate our bilateral relations and benefit the citizens of our countries. I express my gratitude to the government and people of Singapore for their hospitality,' PM Modi shared on X after concluding his two-day visit to Singapore in September 2024.

During their last meeting, Tharman and PM Modi reaffirmed their enduring friendship and discussed India's potential to emerge as a leading center of growth over the next decade, fueled by both social and digital investments across its diverse population, as well as new economic partnerships.