In the wake of the “rising tide of terrorism” and “radicalisation”, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon nations to join hands to collectively fight the menace. In this context, India and Singapore on Tuesday agreed to enhance cooperation in the field of Defence, homeland and cyber security.
Standing in solidarity with India, Singapore Prime Minister lee Hsien loong condemned the recent attack on a military base in Uri and expressed his condolences to the families of the terror attack victims.
Following his bilateral meeting with loong on Tuesday, Modi said, “The rising tide of terrorism, especially cross-border terrorism, and the rise of radicalisation are grave challenges to our security. They threaten the very fabric of our societies. It is my firm belief that those who believe in peace and humanity need to stand and act together against this menace. Today, we have agreed to enhance our cooperation to counter these threats, including in the domain of cyber security.”
During a media statement at Hyderabad House, Modi also noted that as two maritime nations, keeping the sea lines of communication open and respect for international legal order of seas and oceans, was a shared priority.
During the talks, the two sides agreed to increase cooperation in trade and investment, for which a second review of the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement will be expedited. The leaders also discussed setting up a Finance Dialogue between the Finance Ministries of both countries to boost strong economic ties.
Three pacts were signed after the talks. One was related to intellectual property in the field of industrial property to forge better business-to-business exchanges and collaborations. The other two MoUs were in the area of skill development.
While saying that trade and investment ties form the bedrock of the bilateral relationship between India and Singapore, Modi said India has embarked on a path of strong economic growth and transformation and in this journey it regards Singapore as a key partner. The two leaders welcomed the issuance of corporate Rupee bonds in Singapore which was a step forward in mobilising capital for India’s large infrastructure development needs.
“I have been informed that Singapore is leading the world in putting driverless cars on the road. But I rest assured. We all rest assured, that one of India’s strongest well-wishers Prime Minister lee is in the driving seat of Singapore and for our bilateral relationship. Excellency lee, you are a friend of India,” Modi said.
Responding to Modi, loong said, “Singapore remains a firm believer in India and we will continue to contribute, where we can, to India’s remarkable development story.”
Earlier, loong surprised the hosts as he opted to take a chartered bus to his hotel instead of the official cars that had come to pick him up. loong was accompanied by his wife Ho Ching, and the delegation comprising of Ministers, Members of Parliament and senior officials.