Singapore's President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong extended their heartfelt congratulations to India on its 76th Republic Day. In letters addressed to their Indian counterparts, they underscored the robust relationship between Singapore and India. Celebrated on January 26, India's Republic Day marks a significant milestone in the nation's history. The leaders reaffirmed Singapore's commitment to support and invest in India's growth across various fields of mutual interest.
The strong friendship between Singapore and India is reflected in their collaborative efforts to address regional challenges. As India is projected to become the third-largest economy, the fifth-largest as of now, Singapore remains optimistic about India's future. President Tharman stated, "Singapore believes in India’s future. We will continue to support and invest in India’s growth and development in fields of mutual interest, and look forward to many more decades of close partnership."
India's transformation over the years has been noteworthy. Initiatives aimed at uplifting the lives of millions, including the rural poor, have borne fruit. Efforts such as electrifying villages, providing clean cooking gas, building household toilets, and establishing primary healthcare and rural childcare centers showcase India's commitment to improving the lives of its citizens. Mr. Tharman highlighted this progress, saying, "India has seen remarkable transformation, that has uplifted the lives of hundreds of millions, including the rural poor, and created a burgeoning middle class."
Singapore is eager to bolster cooperation at the state level, particularly with India's eastern states, identified as emerging engines of growth. These regions present new opportunities for collaboration. Furthermore, Singapore welcomed India's continued engagement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), which plays a vital role in regional peace and stability. Mr. Wong noted, "We have made good progress in advancing ASEAN-India relations over the years, including the upgrade of relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2022, when Singapore was the country coordinator for India."
The bilateral relationship between Singapore and India continues to thrive. Initiatives discussed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Singapore last September are making significant progress. Mr. Wong expressed optimism about the future of this partnership, stating, "I am confident that our partnership will continue to grow from strength to strength." He also acknowledged the hospitality extended during his recent visit to India, marking 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Moreover, Singapore's Prime Minister Tharman looks forward to visiting India and furthering discussions on enhancing bilateral ties. Mr. Wong emphasized that relations have grown significantly in areas such as trade, finance, education, and defense. He added, "Through the India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable, we are exploring collaboration in new pillars like sustainability, digitalisation, advanced manufacturing, and connectivity."
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