India & Singapore Relation

Why in the News?

In New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held high-level talks with Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.

• India and Malaysia issued a joint communique saying that India was ready to participate in the Malacca Straits patrol, which is an important maritime security measure.
• The negotiations revolved around further bilateral collaboration in eight main spheres:

• Economy,
• Skills development,
• Digitalisation,
• Sustainability,
• Connectivity,
• Healthcare and medicine,
• People-to-people exchanges, and
• Defence and security.

Key Points: India & Singapore Relation

• India also offered to be a member of the Malacca Straits patrolling to guarantee safe and secure sea route lanes in this very important global business roadway.
• The two countries agreed to collaborate on key areas of technology, including:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI),
• Quantum technologies,
• Semiconductors,
• Biotechnology, and
• Cybersecurity.

• A significant portion of the joint statement is carrier role in maritime security, training, exercises and sharing intelligence.
• Singapore reiterated its support for the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) with India, along with ongoing efforts to boost bilateral trade.
• Cooperation was also discussed in:

• Clean energy and sustainability,
• Healthcare innovation,
• Skills development,
• Tourism, and
• Education.

• Both leaders acknowledged the need for free, open, and rules-based regional trade and security architecture in the Indo-Pacific.

History of India-Singapore Relations:

• Early Engagement:

• Indian relations with Singapore had been cordial since the independence in 1965 of Singapore.
• There are relations of congruency; which are based on terms of integration; cultural congruity relations, and sea relations.

• Strategic Partnership:

• The relationship was also made into a Strategic Partnership in 2015.
• Key areas of collaboration include trade, defense, connectivity, and combating terrorism.

• Economic Relations:

• In 2005, a pact called, Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) was signed and this affected the trade and investments hugely.
• Singapore is one of the leading sources of FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) in India.

• Defence Cooperation:

• India and Singapore conduct joint military exercises such as SIMBEX (naval exercise).
• Defence agreements allow Singapore’s armed forces to use Indian facilities for training.

• Cultural and People-to-People Ties:

• Strong ties through tourism, education, and a significant Indian diaspora in Singapore.
• Regular cultural exchanges and student exchange programmes enhance bilateral relations.

Significance of Malacca Straits Patrol Participation

• The Strait of Malacca ranks among the busiest maritime passages, playing a vital role in international trade and energy transportation.
• India’s participation will:
  • Enhance maritime security and anti-piracy operations.
  • Strengthen Indo-Pacific strategic presence.
  • Boost cooperation with ASEAN nations in safeguarding critical sea lanes.