President Droupadi Murmu Welcomes Singapore’s President Tharman Shanmugaratnam at Rashtrapati Bhavan
In a landmark event marking six decades of diplomatic relations, President Droupadi Murmu of India and President Tharman Shanmugaratnam of Singapore unveiled a commemorative joint logo on January 16 in New Delhi.
This symbolic gesture celebrates the enduring partnership between the two nations.
The logo, which incorporates elements from both countries, highlights the deep-rooted friendship.
It features colors from the Indian and Singaporean flags, along with the lotus (India’s national flower) and the orchid (Singapore’s national flower), symbolizing their shared values and mutual trust. The number ‘60’ prominently signifies the milestone of their strong ties.
Expanding Cooperation Across Sectors
Over the past six decades, India and Singapore have strengthened their partnership across multiple domains.
From political and defense collaborations to economic, cultural, and educational exchanges, their relationship continues to evolve.
The partnership now encompasses advanced manufacturing, digitalization, healthcare, sustainability, skills development, and connectivity.
Trade and Economic Ties
Singapore remains India’s largest trading partner within ASEAN and a key source of foreign investment.
Bilateral trade between the two nations rose from USD 6.7 billion in FY 2004-05 to USD 35.6 billion in 2023-24, making Singapore India’s sixth-largest trade partner.
- Trade (2023-24): India imported goods worth USD 21.2 billion from Singapore, a 10.2% decline from the previous year, while exports to Singapore grew by 20.2% to reach USD 14.4 billion.
- Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Singapore ranked as the largest source of FDI into India, contributing USD 11.774 billion in 2023-24. Cumulative FDI from Singapore (April 2000–September 2024) totaled USD 167.47 billion, accounting for 24% of India’s total FDI.
- Investments: Approximately 9,000 Indian companies are registered in Singapore, while over 440 Singaporean companies operate in India. To further investments, Invest India opened an office in Singapore in 2024.
Skill Development and Technology
Collaboration in skill development has seen projects completed across six Indian states, with two more underway.
In September 2024, both nations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focused on education and skill development.
On the technology front, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has launched several Singaporean satellites. Both countries are expanding cooperation in digital health, green technologies, and digital transformation.
A “New Trajectory” of Cooperation
During his first official visit to India as president, Tharman Shanmugaratnam emphasized the evolving partnership between the two nations.
Speaking about a “new trajectory” of collaboration, he highlighted initiatives in advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, and sustainability.
Renewable Energy and Data Corridors
Both countries are exploring the establishment of a “renewable energy corridor” to boost sustainability.
Additionally, plans for a “data corridor” between Gujarat’s GIFT City and Singapore aim to facilitate secure and trusted financial data exchanges, aligning with broader efforts in digital and financial sectors.
Strategic Engagements
President Shanmugaratnam held discussions with President Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reviewing the comprehensive strategic partnership.
They exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest, reaffirming the forward momentum in bilateral relations.
Celebrating a Historic Milestone
President Tharman’s visit marked the beginning of celebrations for the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations.
Reflecting on the historical ties, he noted, “We will never forget that India was one of the first few countries to recognize Singapore’s independence in 1965.”
During his visit, the Singaporean leader met with Indian ministers, including Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
These discussions focused on advancing cooperation in transport, commerce, and digital connectivity.
Looking Ahead
Tharman underscored Singapore’s investment in India’s vision for becoming a developed nation by 2047, remarking, “Singapore has been the leading foreign investor in India for several years, and we are now committed to participating in India’s ambitious plans for the future.”
Highlighting India’s rapid transformation, he praised its digital revolution, which has significantly improved social and economic development, including reducing rural poverty and providing universal access to digital financial services.
Concluding his visit, Tharman attended a state banquet hosted by President Murmu and visited the Raj Ghat memorial to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi.
His itinerary also included a visit to Odisha to explore economic opportunities, accompanied by a delegation of Singaporean business leaders.
