Jaishankar visits Singapore, highlights need for strategic partnership ahead of ISMR meeting

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar engaged in a series of high-level meetings during his three-day visit to Singapore, aimed at bolstering bilateral ties between the two nations. Among the key figures he met were top leaders of Singapore, to whom he conveyed personal greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

During his discussions, Jaishankar underscored the importance of Singapore’s support for the strategic partnership between the two countries. He highlighted the positive sentiments expressed by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong towards the India-Singapore relationship, which he described as a source of strength.

In addition to governmental meetings, Jaishankar interacted with leading corporate figures who shared insights into India’s growth story and their investment experiences in the country. These discussions aimed to further enhance economic cooperation between India and Singapore.

Among the officials Jaishankar met was Singapore’s Indian-origin Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan, with whom he exchanged views on regional matters such as the Indo-Pacific and West Asia. They also reviewed the progress of bilateral cooperation and discussed preparations for the upcoming India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR) meeting, which marks 60 years of diplomatic ties between the two nations.

The ISMR, initiated by Prime Minister Modi, aims to deepen existing cooperation and explore new opportunities for collaboration. Its inaugural meeting was held in 2022, receiving appreciation from PM Modi for strengthening bilateral relations.

Jaishankar’s discussions extended to Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Lawrence Wong, focusing on advancing bilateral ties, particularly in new-age technologies, and addressing the evolving global economic landscape.

Concluding his visit, Jaishankar met Home Affairs & Law Minister K Shanmugam, expressing appreciation for the consistent support received for the strategic partnership. His visit to Singapore is part of a broader regional engagement strategy, with subsequent stops planned in Malaysia and The Philippines to discuss mutual concerns and regional issues.