In a significant move to enhance bilateral cooperation, India and Singapore signed key Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on Wednesday, covering digital technologies, semiconductors, health cooperation, and skill development. The agreements were formalized following bilateral talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Singaporean counterpart, Lawrence Wong.
Key MoUs Signed Between India and Singapore:
- Digital Technologies Collaboration:
India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and Singapore’s Ministry of Digital Development and Information signed an MoU to foster cooperation in digital technologies. This agreement will promote joint initiatives in areas such as digital public infrastructure (DPI), cybersecurity, 5G, and emerging fields like quantum computing, super-computing, and artificial intelligence. Additionally, it will support upskilling and reskilling efforts for workers in the digital domain. - Semiconductor Ecosystem Partnership:
Another major MoU was signed between India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry to collaborate on building a robust semiconductor ecosystem. This partnership aims to establish a semiconductor cluster, enhance talent development, and attract Singaporean investments in India’s growing semiconductor sector. Singapore is a critical player in the global semiconductor supply chain, contributing 10% of the world’s chips and 20% of semiconductor manufacturing equipment. - Health Cooperation:
India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare signed an MoU with Singapore’s Ministry of Health to strengthen collaboration in health and medicine. This agreement will promote joint research and innovation in healthcare and facilitate human resource development in both the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors. It will also aid Indian healthcare professionals seeking opportunities in Singapore. - Educational and Skill Development Cooperation:
India’s Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Singapore’s Ministry of Education signed an MoU focused on advancing technical and vocational education. This agreement will enhance ongoing collaboration in skill development, with a special emphasis on technical training.
Ceremonial Welcome and High-Level Meetings:
Prime Minister Modi received a ceremonial welcome at Singapore’s Parliament House, where he signed the visitor’s book and engaged with Singaporean ministers. In his remarks, Modi highlighted Singapore’s role as both a partner and an inspiration for developing nations. During their meeting, the two leaders reviewed various aspects of bilateral relations, including advanced manufacturing, connectivity, healthcare, and sustainability.
Looking Ahead:
Following their talks, Modi will visit AEM Holdings Ltd’s semiconductor facility and engage in further discussions with Singapore’s President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and other senior ministers. He will also participate in a business meeting with top CEOs, marking a pivotal moment in advancing India-Singapore economic ties.
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