India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi is currently in Singapore from 4 to 5 September for an official visit. Invited by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Modi was hosted for a meal at the Istana on 4 September. He is scheduled to begin official meetings with other Singapore leaders on 5 September. This visit aims to further strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations.
## Background
Modi, who last visited Singapore in 2018, is on a two-country trip that includes Brunei. This marks his fifth visit to Singapore and his first official overseas trip since his party’s victory in the Indian general election, securing his third term in power. His visit is significant as it underscores the ongoing diplomatic and economic relationship between India and Singapore.
## Received “vibrant” welcome
Upon his arrival, Modi was greeted by enthusiastic supporters, many of whom he directly engaged with. The visit was commemorated with a series of cultural performances, including a drum performance in which Modi participated. In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), he expressed his gratitude for the warm reception, stating, “Thank you Singapore! The welcome was truly vibrant.”
Modi also met PM Wong for a meal at the Istana on 4 September to “catch up,” according to a post on Wong’s X account.
## To meet President Tharman, SM Lee and ESM Goh
Modi is expected to kickstart his official meetings on 5 September. According to a media release by the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs, he will receive an official welcome at the Parliament House and call on President Tharman Shanmugaratnam. He will also meet with Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong separately.
## Other business
Modi will participate in a business roundtable with Singaporean business leaders, organised by the Singapore Business Federation. He will engage with Singapore’s semiconductor ecosystem players, students from Singapore in the India Ready Talent Programme, and interns from the Odisha World Skills Center in Singapore companies. Modi is accompanied by India’s Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and other Indian government officials.
## Strengthening bilateral ties
This visit is crucial in further strengthening the bilateral ties between India and Singapore. The discussions and engagements are expected to pave the way for enhanced cooperation in various sectors, including technology, education, and business. Modi’s interactions with key Singaporean leaders and business figures highlight the mutual interest in fostering a robust partnership for future developments.
