PM Modi's Southeast Asia Tour: Focus on Semiconductors, Space, and Energy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Brunei and Singapore early September. Key discussions will revolve around semiconductor cooperation with Singapore and space and defense cooperation with Brunei. Hydrocabon trade with Brunei and Foreign Direct Investment from Singapore are also significant aspects of this visit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's forthcoming visits to Brunei and Singapore mark significant diplomatic milestones, as confirmed by Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary East in the Ministry of External Affairs. The trip, scheduled for September 3-5, aims to bolster India's collaboration in critical sectors.

Regarding semiconductor cooperation with Singapore, Mazumdar emphasized India's keen interest. He noted, 'Singapore is highly integrated into the global semiconductor ecosystem, with over 20 years of experience. We are exploring avenues of collaboration, including setting up facilities in India. This visit is expected to expedite our semiconductor sector partnerships.'

On Brunei, Mazumdar highlighted ongoing space and defense cooperation, particularly in telemilitary tracking and command. He also noted the bilateral trade focusing on hydrocarbons, which comprises 60-70% of the USD 250 million trade, mainly crude oil. With potential increases in natural gas imports, the visit could significantly impact energy cooperation.

(With inputs from agencies.)