On 4 September 2024, Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi jointly announced a strategic plan aimed at enhancing their nations’ partnership. This announcement, made during PM Wong’s official visit to New Delhi, marks a significant step as both countries celebrate the 60th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.
A Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
The newly defined road map is a part of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), which encompasses eight critical areas:
- Economic cooperation
- Skills development
- Digitalisation
- Sustainability
- Connectivity
- Healthcare and medicine
- People-to-people and cultural exchanges
- Defence and security cooperation
This structure is designed to enhance their cooperation across diverse fields, crucial for resilience in today’s complex global climate, as stated by Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Enhancing Economic Ties
Both leaders highlighted the importance of stronger economic ties, with Modi noting that Singapore is pivotal in India’s Act East policy. Wong described the CSP as an “ambitious and detailed” framework aimed at fuelling future collaboration.
They agreed to deepen trade relations by continuing to build on the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA), which came into effect in 2005. Bilateral trade has skyrocketed from S$20 billion to S$52.2 billion in 2023, with Singapore being India’s largest trade partner in Southeast Asia.
Joint Initiatives in Technology and Skills Development
This partnership extends into various technological realms, particularly in semiconductors. The Singapore-India Semiconductor Policy Dialogue will be instrumental in developing India’s semiconductor ecosystem. Both nations will also collaborate on AI readiness, focusing on sectors like agriculture and healthcare.
Furthermore, Singapore will support India’s National Centre of Excellence in Chennai, which will cater to advanced manufacturing and vocational training. This aims to not only enhance industrial capabilities but also to increase employability in critical sectors.
Strengthening People-to-People Relations
On a cultural front, the leaders agreed to foster deeper people-to-people connections through expanded student exchanges and cooperation in nursing skills development. With a significant Indian community residing in Singapore, these initiatives are expected to enrich mutual understanding and collaboration.
Looking Ahead
With the global landscape constantly changing, this detailed road map reflects a future-oriented approach. Both leaders are optimistic about navigating challenges together, as expressed by Modi: “This is a partnership with purpose, rooted in shared values.” With ongoing initiatives like the India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable, the momentum for collaboration remains strong.