NEW DELHI, India - In a bid to enhance mutual ties, India and Singapore have entered alliances that would help the countries tackle the growing threat of terrorism.
Speaking at a ceremony, Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi named cross-border terrorism and increasing radicalisation as the twin challenges that currently pose a serious threat to the smooth functioning of both nations.
Modi said, “Rising tide of terrorism, especially cross-border terrorism, and the rise of radicalisation are grave challenges to our security - they threaten the very fabric of our societies.”
He added in his speech, “It is my firm belief that those who believe in peace and humanity need to stand and act together against this menace.”
Modi was addressing concerns in light of the Uri attacks in India’s northern state of Jammu and Kashmir, that left 19 Indian soldiers dead, followed by a string of attacks and counter-attacks between the Indian army and militants. Modi also addressed the killing of a Border Security Force trooper in an attack by militants on an army camp in Baramulla.
Speaking during his second visit to Singapore, Modi further signed three agreements with the country, with one involving Intellectual Property rights. He said that IP rights tie-up would help boost greater business to business exchanges and collaborations.
Further, both the countries also signed two deals on skill development and one on industrial property cooperation.
The Indian Prime Minister said, “Prime Minister Lee and I also welcome the issuance of corporate rupee bonds in Singapore. It is a step forward in our efforts to mobilise capital for India's large infrastructure development needs.”
Singapore is one of India’s key partners in the realisation of strong economic growth.
During the meeting of the two prime ministers, Modi is said to have praised new technologies emerging from Singapore and said, “I have been informed that Singapore is leading the world in putting driverless cars on the road. But, I rest assured, we all rest assured, that one of India’s strongest well-wishers Prime Minister Lee is in the driving seat for Singapore and for our bilateral relationship. Excellency Lee, you are a friend of India.”
He also went on to laud Singapore for its proactive role in the global market. “Whether it is manufacturing, environment, innovation, technology, or delivery of public services, Singapore does today what the rest of the world would do tomorrow.”
Responding to Modi’s praise, Singapore Prime Minister Lee too pointed out the importance of bilateral ties and also said that Singapore was looking forward to contribute to India’s development wherever possible.
Modi said that he had successfully enhanced the bilateral relationship between both the countries, upgrading it to the level of a Strategic Partnership with “renewed spirit, new energy.”
0 comments:
Post a Comment