India aims to partner with Singapore: MEA

New Delhi

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) highlighted the significant potential of the Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) sector in India, emphasizing its potential for creating jobs and adding value. MEA Secretary (East) Jaideep Mazumdar stated that India could become a hub for MRO services, noting that Singapore, a strong center for MRO, is keen to collaborate with India in this area.

Mazumdar also discussed ongoing partnerships between India and Singapore in energy and data sectors. He mentioned an energy corridor focused on hydrogen, which is being developed between India and Singapore along India’s eastern coast, and confirmed that a memorandum of understanding (MOU) will be signed during the current visit. Regarding the data corridor, he mentioned collaborations between Gujarat’s GIFT City and Singapore.

In addition, Mazumdar addressed India’s engagement with ASEAN nations, particularly Myanmar. He stressed that India is actively working with ASEAN to address Myanmar’s ongoing crisis and maintain regional stability.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a recent meeting with Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, reaffirmed the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations, discussing sectors like semiconductors, digitalization, skilling, and connectivity. He emphasized cooperation in industry, infrastructure, and culture while also expressing concern about Myanmar’s political situation.

MoUs expected during Singapore President's visit: MEA

Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam is on a four-day state visit to India to mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The President and his delegation are visiting Odisha today, where they are expected to sign several MoUs in areas such as green hydrogen, green shipping, industrial parks, and skill development. Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary (East) of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), noted that this visit is significant as it follows Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Singapore in September 2023, during which both nations upgraded their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership.