During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day visit to Singapore, India and Singapore significantly strengthened their bilateral ties, elevating them to a ‘comprehensive strategic partnership.’ This elevation was accompanied by the signing of four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), including a crucial one on semiconductor cooperation. Prime Minister Modi held discussions with his counterpart, Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, during his official visit.
A joint statement released after the meeting highlighted the shared concerns of both nations regarding terrorism, reaffirming their commitment to combatting it in all its forms and manifestations. The statement unequivocally declared that “there can be no justification for acts of terror on any grounds whatsoever.” This shared stance on terrorism serves as a testament to the strong commitment both countries have to ensuring global peace and stability.
The leaders also addressed the vital issue of freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, a region with ongoing territorial disputes. They emphasized the importance of upholding freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea, adhering to international laws. This statement, while not explicitly naming China, serves as a subtle but significant reminder of the concerns over China’s actions in the region. The leaders further emphasized the link between prosperity and security, underscoring the need for peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, particularly the UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea).
Beyond security concerns, the joint statement also highlighted the commitment of both nations to strengthening their economic cooperation. Singapore’s continued support for India’s permanent membership in a reformed United Nations Security Council was reaffirmed, with India expressing gratitude for Singapore’s backing for its candidature as a non-permanent member for the 2028-29 term.
The statement further mentioned the commitment of both nations to work together to promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, advocating for free trade and open markets. This includes their close cooperation on and support for the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF). Furthermore, both leaders expressed appreciation for the ASEAN-India joint statement on cooperation on the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP), and welcomed the Quad’s support for ASEAN centrality.
In concluding their discussions, Prime Minister Modi expressed India’s anticipation for the visit of Singapore’s President Tharman Shanmugaratnam to India next year and extended an invitation to Prime Minister Wong to visit India at a mutually convenient time.
