Singapore: Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with his Singaporean counterpart, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, today to discuss ways to enhance bilateral ties. PM Modi is on a two-day visit to Singapore at Wong’s invitation. The visit began with a formal welcome at the Singapore Parliament House, where PM Modi signed the visitor’s book.
A Historic Meeting
This significant meeting comes just days after Lawrence Wong assumed office as Prime Minister of Singapore and Narendra Modi began his third term as Prime Minister of India. Later today, PM Modi is scheduled to meet President Tharman Shanmugaratnam.
Strengthening Strategic Partnerships
PM Modi’s visit, which started last Wednesday, aims to strengthen bilateral friendship, deepen the “strategic partnership,” and attract investment from Singapore. This visit marks Modi’s fifth official trip to the Southeast Asian nation, following his first bilateral visit to Brunei.
Engaging with Singapore’s Leadership
During his two-day visit, PM Modi will engage with three generations of Singapore’s leadership. He will meet Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong, with Lee hosting Modi for lunch. Additionally, Modi will meet with Singaporean industrialists and interact with key figures in the country’s semiconductor ecosystem.
Warm Welcome and Productive Discussions
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Wong warmly welcomed Modi at his Sri Temasek bungalow for dinner. Wong shared a photo with Modi on ‘X’, expressing his pleasure at meeting him over lunch before the official meetings. PM Modi responded, highlighting the fruitful discussions and reaffirming India’s cherished friendship with Singapore.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
PM Modi’s previous visit to Singapore was in 2018. With Wong recently taking office and Modi beginning his third term, this visit symbolizes a renewed commitment to strengthening ties between the two nations.
Key Highlights of the Visit
- Formal Welcome: PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome at the Singapore Parliament House.
- Leadership Meetings: Interactions with Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong.
- Industrial Engagement: Meetings with Singaporean industrialists and the semiconductor ecosystem.
- Warm Reception: Dinner hosted by Prime Minister Wong at Sri Temasek bungalow.
This visit underscores the importance of India-Singapore relations and sets the stage for future collaborations in various sectors, including advanced manufacturing, digitalization, and sustainable development.
