Iswaran calls on Indian PM Modi in Gujarat

SINGAPORE - Minister in the Prime Minister's Office S. Iswaran called on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Gujarat yesterday.

During the meeting, both parties reaffirmed the long-standing bilateral ties as well as the strong and growing economic links between the two countries.

They also discussed opportunities for further bilateral economic collaboration in sectors such as urban solutions, energy and manufacturing arising from Mr Modi's "Smart Cities" and "Make in India" initiatives, the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) said in a statement today.

Mr Iswaran, who is also Second Minister for Home Affairs and Trade and Industry, noted that Singapore had committed to being a Partner Country for the 7th Vibrant Gujarat Summit when Mr Modi was the then Chief Minister of Gujarat.

He added that Singapore's participation was timely as 2015 also marks the 50th year of diplomatic relations between Singapore and India.

Mr Modi welcomed Singapore's participation in the summit and also expressed his support for Singapore's partnership with Andhra Pradesh to masterplan its new capital city.

Mr Iswaran said that Singapore looks forward to working closely with the Indian government on this project.

The Minister also met with Chief Minister of Gujarat Anandiben Patel for the first time, and highlighted the business interests from Singapore companies in the summit. Mr Patel welcomed Singapore's strong support with around 40 companies exploring opportunities in Gujarat, the MTI said.

huizhen@sph.com.sg