India and Singapore convened the 18th round of Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) on March 7, 2025, in Singapore, marking a significant milestone in their diplomatic ties. The Indian delegation was led by Shri Jaideep Muzumdar, Secretary (East) of the Ministry of External Affairs, while the Singapore side was headed by Mr. Luke Goh, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The meeting focused on reviewing the comprehensive spectrum of bilateral and multilateral cooperation between the two countries. The discussions focused on the six pillars of cooperation—Digitalization, Skills Development, Sustainability, Healthcare & Medicine, Advanced Manufacturing, and Connectivity. These areas were identified during the two rounds of the India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable as key focus areas for further enhancing bilateral relations.
Both sides also discussed various other areas of their collaboration, including defence, trade, investments, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people ties. Furthermore, the two nations explored the roadmap for the implementation of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and Singapore, which was announced during Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visit to Singapore in September 2024.
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Singapore, and the 18th round of Foreign Office Consultations was a significant occasion to reflect on the progress made over the years. The two countries have witnessed strong, multifaceted ties, from trade and investments to people-to-people exchanges, over the last six decades. The meeting was seen as a timely opportunity to review recent high-level exchanges and further strengthen the long-standing partnership.
Both sides also discussed future high-level visits and exchanges planned for this milestone year, which are expected to help push forward bilateral agendas and address global challenges.
During his visit, Secretary (East) Shri Muzumdar had several high-level engagements. He met with Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, and had discussion with Dr. Beh Swan Gin, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Trade and Industry. These interactions were aimed at deepening economic ties and addressing issues related to trade and investments.
Additionally, Shri Muzumdar engaged with scholars and academics at an interaction organised by the Institute of South Asian Studies at the National University of Singapore. This allowed for an in-depth exchange of views on the evolving India-Singapore relationship, regional dynamics, and global challenges.
The meeting underscored the growing partnership between the two nations, with a shared vision for a more connected and prosperous future.