Tech, innovation strong pillars of India-Singapore partnership
PM Modi called UPI and PayNow ‘successful examples’ of digital connectivity
image for illustrative purpose
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday called technology and innovation "strong pillars" of the partnership between India and Singapore as he announced that both nations have decided to enhance cooperation in AI, quantum, and other digital technologies.
Addressing a press meet alongside his Singaporean counterpart Lawrence Wong following their talks here, PM Modi called UPI and PayNow "successful examples" of digital connectivity. He announced that India and Singapore have decided to review the Bilateral Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement and Free Trade Agreement with ASEAN in a time-bound manner.
"Technology and innovation are the strong pillars of our partnership. We have decided to enhance cooperation in AI, quantum, and other digital technologies. The agreement in the space sector today is adding a new chapter to cooperation in the field of space science. We have decided to hold the next round of the India-Singapore Hackathon later this year to connect our youth with their talent. UPI and PayNow are successful examples of our digital connectivity, and it is a matter of pleasure that 13 new Indian banks have joined them today," he said.
Extending a warm welcome to the Singaporean leader, PM Modi said: "I extend a warm welcome to Prime Minister Wong on his first visit to India since assuming office. This visit is all the more special as this year we celebrate the 60th anniversary of our relations."
He recalled his visit to Singapore in 2024, during which the two nations elevated their ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and listed the sectors which will also become the focal point of cooperation between the two nations.
He called Singapore an "important pillar" of India's Act East policy and said that the two nations will continue to work together with the ASEAN to advance their joint vision for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
"Last year, during my visit to Singapore, we elevated our relations to the status of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. In this one year, our dialogue and cooperation have gained speed and depth. Today, Singapore is our largest trade partner in the Southeast Asia region. There has been a large-scale investment from Singapore in India. Our defence relations are continuously getting stronger. People-to-people relations are deep and vibrant. Today, we have prepared a detailed roadmap for the future of our partnership. Our cooperation will not be limited to traditional areas only. In keeping with the changing times, areas like advanced manufacturing, green shipping, skilling, civil, nuclear and urban water management will also become the focal point of our cooperation," he said.
