Context: 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held delegation-level talks with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong during the latter’s three-day official visit to India. The visit coincided with the 60th anniversary of India–Singapore diplomatic relations, symbolizing a strong commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation. The talks culminated in the signing of five Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) covering Civil Aviation, Space, Skill Development, Digital Asset Innovation, and Green and Digital Shipping Corridors.

Key Areas of Agreement:

1. Artificial Intelligence & Semiconductors

·         Both countries pledged to strengthen cooperation in AI and semiconductor manufacturing.

·         Singapore, which produces 10% of global chips and 20% of semiconductor equipment, is a key partner in India’s plan to launch its first indigenous chips by end-2025.

2. Multi-Sector MoUs & Skilling Initiatives

·         Singapore announced state-level skill centres in India for aviation and semiconductors.

·         Support extended for the National Centre of Excellence for Skilling in Chennai to promote talent in advanced manufacturing.

3. Trade & Financial Integration

·         Both sides agreed to a time-bound review of the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) and the ASEAN Free Trade Agreement.

·         GIFT City (Gujarat) was highlighted as a growing hub for financial connectivity between the two nations.

4. Indo-Pacific Vision & Act East Policy

·         Singapore reaffirmed as a key pillar of India’s Act East Policy.

·         Emphasis on ASEAN centrality and regional cooperation for Indo-Pacific peace and stability.

About India–Singapore Relations:

Historical Connect

·         Singapore was established as a trading post in 1819 under British rule and governed from Kolkata.

·         India was among the first countries to recognize Singapore's independence in 1965.

Trade and Economic Cooperation

·         Singapore is India’s largest trade partner in ASEAN and 6th largest globally (FY 2023–24).

·         Bilateral trade reached USD 34.26 billion in 2024–25.

·         India remains a net importer.

·         Direct Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) signed in 1994 to curb tax evasion.

Defence Cooperation

·         Strategic ties extend to maritime security in the Indian Ocean and South China Sea.

·         Regular joint exercises:

o    Agni Warrior – Army

o    SIMBEX – Navy

o    JMT (Joint Military Training) – Air Force

Fintech and Digital Collaboration

·         Significant developments include:

o    RuPay card acceptance in Singapore

o    UPI–PayNow digital payment linkage

Multilateral Engagement

·         Both nations participate in:

o    East Asia Summit

o    Commonwealth

o    IORA

o    IONS

·         Singapore is a member of:

o    International Solar Alliance

o    Global Biofuel Alliance

·         Both support the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF).

Indian Diaspora in Singapore

·         Ethnic Indians make up ~9.1% of Singapore's resident population.

·         Around 20% of the 1.6 million foreigners in Singapore are Indian citizens.

·         Tamil is one of Singapore’s four official languages, reflecting strong cultural ties.

Conclusion:

India–Singapore relations have evolved into a robust, multi-dimensional partnership anchored in historical ties, shared values, and strategic interests. From trade and technology to defence and diaspora, the bilateral relationship is characterized by depth, trust, and forward-looking cooperation. The recent MoUs and strategic dialogues during PM Lawrence Wong’s visit provide a clear roadmap for the next phase of engagement, reinforcing both countries' roles as key partners in shaping a peaceful, prosperous, and resilient Indo-Pacific region.