The Impressive TimesNew Delhi, January 16, 2025: Singapore’s President Tharman Shanmugaratnam was officially welcomed in India on Thursday with a grand ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan, marking the beginning of his state visit. This visit is expected to further strengthen the longstanding ties between India and Singapore.
President Shanmugaratnam was greeted by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan, where he was honored with a Guard of Honour. The event was a reflection of the close diplomatic and cultural relationship between the two nations. Following the ceremony, President Shanmugaratnam proceeded to Raj Ghat to pay his respects to Mahatma Gandhi, emphasizing the significance of the Gandhian principles of non-violence and truth that continue to inspire both nations.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) posted on X, “Welcoming a close partner! President @Tharman_S of Singapore receives a ceremonial welcome & Guard of Honour on his maiden State Visit to India. President @DroupadiMurmu and PM @narendramodi warmly greeted President Tharman at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan.”
In his visit to Raj Ghat, the Singapore President paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, stating, “Bapu’s ideals and teachings continue to inspire us all,” underscoring the shared values of both India and Singapore. The ceremonial welcome is a prelude to important discussions between the Singaporean President, President Murmu, and Prime Minister Modi that are expected to focus on further enhancing bilateral ties.
The visit of President Tharman is significant as it highlights the continued strengthening of relations between India and Singapore. The two countries share a robust and multifaceted partnership, with extensive cooperation in trade, technology, education, and defense. The recent elevation of the bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Singapore in September 2024 serves as a testament to this growing collaboration.
This state visit is also an important milestone as it marks the commencement of celebrations for the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The milestone event underscores the long-standing friendship, trust, and mutual respect between India and Singapore.
President Tharman is scheduled to visit Odisha from January 17-18, where he will engage with the Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi. The President will receive briefings on the state’s economic strategies and potential for future collaborations. Additionally, the President will visit key sites including the World Skills Centre, which was established with the support of Singapore’s Institute of Technical Education Education Services (ITEES) and funding from the Asian Development Bank.
He will also tour a vaccine manufacturing plant operated by Bharat Biotech, showcasing the growing focus on biotechnology and health cooperation between the two countries. The visit will highlight Odisha’s rich cultural heritage as well as its emerging role in India’s economic development. A business delegation accompanying President Tharman will explore opportunities in skills development and other sectors critical to India’s economic future.
With his maiden state visit, President Tharman Shanmugaratnam’s presence in India is set to further fortify the strategic and economic ties between the two nations.
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