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Singaporean companies are expected to increase investments in India, while Indian companies will use Singapore as a hub for their global operations.
India-Singapore relations began on August 24, 1965 when Singapore gained independence, with India being one of the first countries to recognise it. (File Photo)
Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong is visiting India for three days from September 2, 2025, commemorating the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The visit focuses on bolstering economic, defence, and cultural ties. Here, we delve into the beginnings, evolution, and key highlights of India-Singapore relations.
India-Singapore relations: Origins and Evolution
India-Singapore relations began on August 24, 1965 when Singapore gained independence, with India being one of the first countries to recognise it. At the time, Singapore faced threats from China-backed communists and pressure from neighbouring countries, viewing India as a strong partner for regional security and trade. Trade and cultural exchanges date back to 1819 when British officer Sir Stamford Raffles established a trading post in Singapore, governed from Kolkata. During the British period, this relationship continued, with Subhash Chandra Bose forming the Azad Hind Fauj in Singapore in 1943, playing a crucial role in India’s freedom struggle.
Milestones over 60 Years
Over the past six decades, India and Singapore have achieved notable milestones. In 2005, they signed the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA), India’s first such agreement, enhancing trade and investment. By 2015, their relationship advanced to a Strategic Partnership and further to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2024.
Singapore has become one of India’s largest investor, with investments totalling $167.47 billion from 2000 to September 2024, constituting 24% of India’s total FDI. Trade between the two nations amounted to $35.6 billion in 2023-24, with Singapore being India’s largest trading partner in ASEAN. Singaporean companies are involved in various projects in India, including smart cities, airports, and industrial parks.
Defence and Security Cooperation
The two countries engage in joint military exercises like SIMBEX (Navy) and Agni Warrior (Army). A naval cooperation agreement signed in 2017 enables the navies to refuel and resupply at each other’s bases. They also collaborate on maritime security and peace in the Indo-Pacific region.
Indian Population in Singapore
Nine percent of Singapore’s population is of Indian origin, significantly contributing to its culture and economy. The Thiruvalluvar Cultural Centre was announced in 2024. ISRO has launched several satellites for Singapore, starting with the first indigenous micro-satellite in 2011. The UPI-PayNow linkage and RuPay card acceptance have made digital transactions between the two countries easier.
Highlights of Lawrence Wong’s Visit
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, accompanied by his wife and a high-level delegation, is visiting India from September 2-4, 2025. Several key agreements will be signed in areas like shipping, civil aviation, space, digital technology, and semiconductors. On September 4, PM Wong and PM Narendra Modi will virtually inaugurate a container terminal in Maharashtra, a project with over $1 billion investment from the Singapore Port Authority. Wong will also meet President Draupadi Murmu, Foreign Minister S Jaishankar, and other ministers to discuss regional and global issues.
Celebrating 60 Years
This year marks the 60th anniversary of India-Singapore relations. In January 2025, Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam visited India, where both countries launched a special logo featuring India’s lotus and Singapore’s orchid, symbolising their friendship and shared values.
Significance of the Relationship
Singapore plays a crucial role in India’s Act East Policy, enhancing India’s presence in Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific region. It serves as a gateway for India to ASEAN, with both countries collaborating on platforms like the G20, Commonwealth, and Indian Ocean Rim Association.
Future Prospects
Wong’s visit aims to enhance cooperation in new technologies, green energy, and smart city projects. Singaporean companies are expected to increase investments in India, while Indian companies will use Singapore as a hub for their global operations. This relationship is poised to grow stronger economically, culturally, and strategically.
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