During his recent trip to Singapore, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged in fruitful discussions with the nation's top leadership, fostering the opportunity to assess the progress across various areas of collaboration and reinforce the bilateral Strategic Partnership.
The official statement released highlighted the significance of Jaishankar's visit from March 23 to 25, during which he met with esteemed figures including Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Deputy Prime Minister cum Finance Minister Lawrence Wong.
Discussions revolved around enhancing involvement in key domains of bilateral cooperation such as fintech, digitalization, sustainable practices, skill development, and food security, as outlined by India's Ministry of External Affairs. Additionally, Jaishankar held talks with Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, delving into bilateral, regional, and global affairs of mutual interest.
The agenda further encompassed bilateral sessions with various cabinet members and senior ministers, aimed at bolstering strategic ties and addressing regional dynamics, particularly in the Indo-Pacific and West Asia regions.
Minister Jaishankar's itinerary included individual meetings with Minister of Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong, emphasizing collaborative efforts in trade, investment, renewable energy, and food sustainability. Moreover, he convened with Finance Minister Lawrence Wong, Minister of Home Affairs & Law K Shanmugam, and Coordinating Minister for National Security Teo Chee Hean to explore avenues for closer cooperation.
As part of his visit, Jaishankar paid homage to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose at a war memorial dedicated to the Indian National Army soldiers in Singapore. He also engaged with the Indian diaspora and participated in an event hosted by the Institute of South Asian Studies, engaging with intellectuals and policymakers.
Singapore currently serves as the country coordinator for India within ASEAN and was honored as a Guest Country during India's Presidency of the G20 last year, further underlining the importance of their bilateral relations.
Read also | Delhi Theft: BJP President J.P. Nadda's Wife's SUV Reportedly Stolen
