India and Singapore are set to strengthen their bilateral ties to a new level. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to visit Singapore, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has highlighted the growing importance of the relationship between the two countries. The minister believes that India and Singapore have the potential to build a partnership based on mutual trust and understanding.
A New Era of Collaboration: India and Singapore
Jaishankar expressed his view that the current state of affairs both within India and globally makes it an ideal time for the two nations to take their relationship to a higher level. “Given the transformation underway in India and the changes in the world, they need to become more contemporary. In many ways, that is why Prime Minister Narendra Modi has chosen to visit Singapore so early in his third term,” he stated.
India’s Achievements and Aspirations
Jaishankar emphasized the economic and technological progress achieved by India in the past decade. He pointed to the country’s rapid digitalization, advancements in infrastructure, focus on manufacturing, and the availability of a talented workforce as key strengths. India’s ambition is to leverage these achievements as a springboard to further accelerate national growth and modernization.
Strategic Partnership in a Changing World
India and Singapore share a high level of trust and understanding, enabling them to share assessments and explore areas of convergence, particularly in a world characterized by volatility and uncertainty. This collaborative approach extends beyond bilateral relations, encompassing a commitment to regional and global security and stability.
Building upon Past Success: The Importance of the ‘Act East’ Policy
The ‘Act East’ policy, India’s commitment to engage with Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific region, has become central to India’s foreign policy strategy. Singapore is strategically positioned as a key partner in this effort, playing a pivotal role in the development of security, connectivity, technology, and sustainability initiatives.
Exploring New Frontiers: The Promise of Technology and Innovation
India and Singapore have identified several key areas of future collaboration, particularly in cutting-edge technologies. Semiconductors, green technologies, electric mobility, and connectivity infrastructure are key areas of interest for both countries. Collaborative efforts in these fields will shape the future landscape of technology and development in the region.
Strengthening Ties Beyond Bilateralism
Jaishankar addressed perceptions that India’s primary focus in its extended neighborhood has shifted towards the Gulf region at the expense of ASEAN. He refuted this notion, emphasizing the deepening ties between India and ASEAN, while simultaneously acknowledging the remarkable growth in India’s relationship with Gulf nations.
Multifaceted Engagement: A Global Vision
India, being the world’s most populous nation and fifth-largest economy, operates within a multi-directional engagement framework, not adhering to a zero-sum approach. This outlook emphasizes the country’s commitment to forging partnerships globally while navigating its strategic interests effectively.
The Way Forward: A Shared Vision for the Future
The visit by Prime Minister Modi to Singapore symbolizes the shared commitment of both countries to bolster their partnership. Through their collaboration, India and Singapore aim to address critical issues such as connectivity, energy flows, food security, and healthcare. They are poised to forge a new era of collaboration, fostering stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.
Takeaways
- India and Singapore are entering a new phase of their bilateral relationship, driven by shared interests and strategic goals.
- The relationship transcends bilateralism and encompasses collaboration on regional and global challenges.
- India’s commitment to the ‘Act East’ policy positions Singapore as a key partner in India’s Indo-Pacific engagement.
- Both nations are committed to leveraging technology and innovation as drivers of growth and development.
- India’s global outlook prioritizes building partnerships with multiple regions, not operating within a zero-sum framework.
- The Prime Minister’s visit to Singapore reinforces the commitment of both countries to a future built on strong partnerships and mutual benefits.