Tharman Shanmugaratnam highlights the importance of regional collaboration for growth, sustainability, and stability during his Odisha visit
Bhubaneswar (Odisha) [India], January 19: Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam has emphasized the critical need for Singapore to strengthen ties with ASEAN nations, India, and China, citing regional collaboration as essential for his country’s future prosperity.
Speaking to the media during his visit to Odisha as part of a four-day state visit to India, President Tharman remarked,
“It’s not possible for us in Singapore to do well in the future without engaging closely with our ASEAN neighbours, with India, and with China. That’s where the opportunities lie, and that’s where we also develop our sense of being contributors to Asia’s growth, sustainability, and stability.”
Deepening Singapore-India Relations
Highlighting Singapore’s robust relationship with India, President Tharman underscored the role of both long-standing and newer Indian communities in fostering bilateral ties. He also stressed the importance of non-Indian Singaporeans taking an active interest in India to explore its opportunities and embrace its diversity.
“Singaporeans who, through generations, had ancestors from India as well as newer immigrants from India, are an important part of the relationship. But very importantly, it’s about all Singaporeans,” he said.
The President encouraged Singaporeans of all backgrounds to broaden their perspectives by engaging with India, stating,
“This relationship might not always provide direct economic opportunities, but it certainly broadens our worldview.”
Strategic Vision for Asia
President Tharman’s visit aims to strengthen Singapore’s ties with India and underscore the shared goals of regional stability and development. As Singapore looks to its ASEAN neighbours, India, and China for mutual growth, the visit reaffirms its commitment to being an active contributor to Asia’s future.