PM Modi's Diplomatic Tour Strengthens Ties with Brunei and Singapore

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora in Singapore, following his visit to Brunei. His diplomatic discussions with leaders focused on enhancing bilateral ties in trade, defense, and space. Highlights included playing a 'dhol' and inaugurating a new Indian Chancery in Brunei.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was warmly welcomed by members of the Indian diaspora upon his arrival at a hotel in Singapore on Wednesday. The Prime Minister showcased his cultural appreciation by participating in a traditional 'dhol' performance as part of the celebratory welcome.

Arriving from Brunei's Changai airport, he was received by Indian High Commissioner to Singapore Shilpak Ambule and Singapore's High Commissioner to India, Simon Wong, among other officials. During his stay, Modi and Lawrence Wong will review progress on the India-Singapore Strategic Partnership and discuss regional and global concerns, as per the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Modi's itinerary includes meetings with Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and interactions with local business leaders. Before arriving in Singapore, Modi completed an official visit to Brunei, where he engaged in comprehensive discussions with Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah about strengthening bilateral ties. They conversed on expanding trade, commercial links, and enhancing people-to-people exchanges. In his earlier Brunei visit, Modi inaugurated India's new Chancery in Bandar Seri Begawan and visited Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque.

Highlighting his Brunei trip, Secretary East for the Ministry of External Affairs, Jaideep Mazumdar, mentioned that discussions covered areas such as defense, trade, investment, space, energy, health, and culture. Brunei also plans to initiate direct flights to India this year, aiming to enhance connectivity. Cooperation in emerging sectors like FinTech and digital technologies were also discussed.

Both nations reaffirmed commitment to collaborate on space-related initiatives, signing an MoU to further bilateral cooperation. The talks also encompassed ASEAN-related and international issues, aligning with India's Act-East policy and vision for the Indo-Pacific. A joint statement issued by both countries elevated their relationship to an enhanced partnership.

(With inputs from agencies.)