Singapore's President Visits India to Bolster Strategic Partnership Samvada World

Enhanced Economic and Digital Collaboration: India and Singapore agreed on key initiatives, including a data corridor between GIFT City and Singapore and a renewable energy corridor in Odisha, strengthening ties in sustainability and technology.

Focus on Eastern India: Under the “Act East Policy,” Singapore is actively contributing to the development of states like Odisha and Assam, with agreements for skill development in the semiconductor industry.

Strategic Partnership in ASEAN: Singapore’s neutrality and strategic location enhance India’s access to ASEAN markets, aligning both nations on shared values of democracy and economic growth.

Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam visited India last week, marking a reciprocal visit to Prime Minister Modi’s trip to Singapore last year. This is significant as it is the first visit of Singapore’s President of Indian origin, who assumed office in 2023. Notably, India was one of the first countries to acknowledge Singapore’s independence in 1965. The relationship between India and Singapore gained sharper focus after the comprehensive strategic partnership was signed during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Singapore in the past year.

Over time, Singapore has become one of the largest investors in India. The primary goal of President Shanmugaratnam’s visit was to promote cooperation in sustainability and the digital sector. It was decided that a data corridor would be set up between the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) and Singapore, along with a renewable energy corridor in Odisha. Additionally, agreements were signed for the establishment of advanced manufacturing and semiconductor units, as well as a net-zero industrial park in India through Singapore’s partnership. Singapore will also support MRO operations in the aerospace sector, with major developments centered in Odisha.

Eastern India has received significant attention under PM Modi’s “Act East Policy.” Singapore has agreed to contribute to the development of eastern states like Odisha and Assam. Recognizing the geopolitical significance of Northeast and East India, the Indian government has been selective about allowing investments in these regions. Japan has been a key partner in developing Northeast India, and Singapore has now emerged as a vital player. During this visit, President Shanmugaratnam paid a specific visit to Odisha, where major collaboration agreements were signed between the Government of Odisha and Singapore’s Institute of Technical Education (ITEES) for skill development and technical education in the semiconductor industry.

Singapore is a crucial partner for India, not just due to its strategic location in Asia but also because of deep-rooted cultural and historical ties. India has always prioritized building strong relationships with ASEAN countries, and Singapore has emerged as a key ally in this effort. This closeness is not just geographical but also rooted in shared values like democracy and a mutual commitment to growth and stability. The relationship extends beyond business and trade; it is about building a lasting bond that benefits both sides in numerous ways.

Most ASEAN countries are in a transition phase toward becoming developed nations, and their geopolitical neutrality further strengthens bonds with India. Both India and countries like Singapore have maintained a neutral stance in geopolitical tensions, aligning their visions for the international world order. Singapore’s neutrality makes it an ideal gateway for investments into India, playing a crucial role in boosting India’s presence in the ASEAN region. Through its strong partnership with Singapore, India can more easily access and expand its reach in the ASEAN market, strengthening both economic and strategic ties. This relationship is essential to helping India grow its influence and deepen connections in one of the world’s most dynamic regions.