India-Singapore ties receive a fillip as 2 countries sign MoUs for economic collaboration

New Delhi, Jan 17: Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam on his maiden state visit to India from January 14–18 toured Odisha.

This visit to the eastern state marks a major moment in fostering regional cooperation and strengthening India-Singapore ties.

It also highlights President Tharman’s interest in exploring eastern India, expressed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Singapore in September 2024.

Showcasing Odisha’s Potential

In the capital Bhubaneswar, President Tharman’s tour to the World Skill Centre (WSC), a flagship institution developed with Singapore’s Institute of Technical Education, stands as a symbol of the growing collaboration in skill development between the two regions.

President Tharman will also explore Odisha's rich cultural and industrial landscape.

Strengthening Odisha-Singapore Collaboration

The visit is expected to catalyse agreements that bolster cooperation in key areas:

Skill Development

In the ITE education services, Singapore will partner with Odisha to expand expertise in emerging sectors such as semiconductors.

Renewable Energy

IIT Bhubaneswar and GRIDCO will collaborate with Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, on green energy research.

Green Initiatives

Sembcorp, a Singaporean firm, will work on green ammonia and industrial park projects.

Urban Development

Surbana Jurong will provide consultancy services to support Odisha’s urban and industrial growth.

These agreements are poised to elevate Odisha’s profile as a hub for trade, investment, and innovation while enhancing cultural and economic ties with Singapore.

Singapore is a cornerstone of India’s "Act East" policy and a key partner in the Indo-Pacific vision. President Tharman’s visit, aligned with the 60th anniversary of India-Singapore diplomatic relations, highlights the elevation of bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2024.

Before his Odisha visit, President Tharman engaged in high-level meetings in New Delhi. He was welcomed with a ceremonial guard of honour at Rashtrapati Bhavan and paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat.

Discussions with President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi focused on enhancing strategic ties and addressing regional and global challenges.

A joint logo commemorating 60 years of diplomatic relations was unveiled during a state banquet hosted by President Murmu. President Tharman also met with key Indian ministers, including External Affairs Minister, Dr S Jaishankar, and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, to explore avenues for deepening cooperation.