External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar concluded a successful three-day official visit to Singapore on March 25, marking the first leg of his journey through Singapore, the Philippines, and Malaysia. During his stay, EAM Jaishankar engaged in a series of high-level meetings aimed at bolstering bilateral ties and exploring avenues for cooperation in various sectors.
One of the highlights of the visit was EAM Jaishankar’s meeting with Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. The two leaders exchanged views on enhancing collaboration across multiple sectors, including fintech, digitalization, the green economy, skills development, and food security. This dialogue underscored the commitment of both nations to deepen their strategic partnership and foster mutual growth.
In addition to his meeting with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, EAM Jaishankar also held discussions with Lawrence Wong, Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister. These talks centered on avenues for cooperation in trade and investment, green energy, and ensuring food security.
Further strengthening the bilateral partnership, EAM Jaishankar engaged with key figures in Singapore’s leadership, including Teo Chee Hean, Senior Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security, and Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister of Foreign Affairs. These meetings focused on a range of issues, from regional security to global challenges of mutual interest.
Minister Jaishankar also met with Gan Kim Yong, Singapore’s Minister of Trade & Industry, to discuss bilateral cooperation in various sectors. Additionally, discussions with K Shanmugam, Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Law, aimed at strengthening the existing partnership between India and Singapore.
During his visit, EAM Jaishankar paid tribute to the iconic Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose at the INA marker in Singapore, highlighting the historical ties between India and Singapore. He also engaged with the vibrant Indian community in Singapore, interacting with its members and witnessing a video presentation on the ‘Saga of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose,’ created by the community.
EAM Jaishankar’s visit also included participation in an event organized by the Institute of South Asian Studies (ISAS), where he engaged with think tanks and policymakers. This platform provided an opportunity to discuss regional and global issues of importance, further solidifying the ties between India and Singapore.
Singapore’s role as the current country coordinator for India at ASEAN and its previous invitation as a Guest Country during India’s Presidency of the G20 in 2023 were also highlighted during the visit. The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that the visit was instrumental in advancing the Strategic Partnership between India and Singapore, while also taking stock of progress in various areas of cooperation.
