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Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent engagements in his third term have underscored India's commitment to bolstering its ties with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Following successful visits to Vietnam and Malaysia, Modi concluded a fruitful trip to Brunei and Singapore, highlighting the increasing importance of the Act East Policy in India's foreign policy strategy. This policy, now in its tenth year, aims to strengthen regional relationships and enhance India's role in the Asia-Pacific region.
The visit to Brunei marked a significant milestone, as it was the first bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister since Brunei's independence in 1984. The visit, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, elevated the India-Brunei relationship to an ‘Enhanced Partnership’, signifying a more intensive engagement in various areas, including trade, gas, space, and capacity building. Brunei also hosts a satellite tracking station for India's space program, further solidifying the collaborative efforts between the two nations.
The visit to Singapore further cemented India's commitment to strengthening its relationship with ASEAN. The partnership was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, reflecting the shared aspirations and growing cooperation between the two countries. This visit held particular significance as it was Modi's first trip to Singapore since assuming office in his third term. His earlier visit in 2018, during his first term, is fondly remembered for his impactful speech at the Shangri-La dialogue, where he outlined India's Indo-Pacific policy.
The visit was marked by a series of high-level engagements, including a meeting with the new Prime Minister of Singapore, Lawrence Wong, and the two former Prime Ministers, with whom India had strong ties. Singapore's role as the country coordinator for India in ASEAN over the past three years further underscored the strategic importance of the relationship. Both PMs expressed their shared desire to strengthen the human, spiritual, and cultural linkages between India and Singapore, recognizing the vibrant Indian diaspora in the country.
The visit was meticulously planned, culminating in the ‘4X4’ ministerial engagement, a platform that facilitated the identification of six pillars for bilateral cooperation. The focus on advanced manufacturing, particularly semiconductors, and connectivity highlights the shared priorities and growing economic interdependence between India and Singapore. Singapore, a global leader in chip production, is keen to support India's ambition to become a major player in semiconductor manufacturing. This collaboration aligns with India's efforts to boost its domestic manufacturing capabilities and strengthen its participation in the global supply chain.
The visit underscores the growing appreciation in Singapore for India's economic potential and dynamism. With India's rapid growth trajectory and ongoing reforms, Singapore recognizes the vast opportunities for collaboration and economic cooperation. The visit also reflects the emerging trend of ‘China plus one’ strategies, as Singapore seeks to diversify its supply chains and explore alternative partners beyond China. India, with its robust economy and growing international presence, presents a compelling option for Singapore.
The visit to Singapore saw the signing of four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) on digital technologies, semiconductors, health cooperation, and skill development. These agreements represent a tangible commitment to enhancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest, further strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations. The visit also saw Singapore acknowledging the role of the Quad, an important development in the context of regional security dynamics.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi's visits to Brunei and Singapore mark a significant step in India's engagement with ASEAN. The visits have yielded concrete results, elevating partnerships and expanding areas of cooperation. The focus on economic partnerships, particularly in the field of semiconductors, underscores the strategic importance of India-ASEAN relations. As India continues its journey of economic growth and development, Singapore presents a valuable and reliable partner, ready to contribute to India's success story.
Source: PM Modi's visit to Brunei, Singapore bolsters up ASEAN focus in his third term