Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam highlighted India’s growing role as a global economic powerhouse during his visit to Odisha. He emphasised Singapore’s commitment to supporting India’s semiconductor ecosystem, aviation connectivity, and skilling programs.
“India aims to be a geopolitical and economic powerhouse in a multipolar world. “We want to collaborate with India,” Shanmugaratnam said, citing the country’s demographics, development trajectory, and export possibilities.
The President highlighted India and Singapore’s shared priorities under the India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable, which include the creation of a semiconductor ecosystem and industrial parks. He cited Sembcorp’s active pursuit of new industrial park locations in India.
Another key area is skill development, with Singapore harnessing its expertise to help India’s skill development ecosystem thrive. Sustainability was also highlighted as a significant collaboration area, with Singapore eager to participate in India’s solar, wind energy, and green ammonia sectors, as well as the establishment of a green corridor to Southeast Asia.
Shanmugaratnam emphasised the importance of connectivity and urged the expansion of the air service agreement, which was last amended a decade ago. Improved aviation linkages would strengthen both countries’ economic ties and enable tighter cooperation.
The President’s statements reiterated India and Singapore’s strong alliance, which aims to promote growth in important areas.
