President Tharman Shanmugaratnam Embarks on State Visit to India to Celebrate 60 Years of Diplomatic Ties with Singapore
President Tharman Shanmugaratnam of Singapore is set to embark on a momentous five-day state visit to India, marking the commemoration of the 60th anniversary of established diplomatic relations between the two countries. The visit, which kicks off on Jan 14, follows an invitation from Indian President Droupadi Murmu and promises to strengthen the longstanding bond between Singapore and India.
Celebrating Milestones in New Delhi and Odisha
During his visit, President Tharman will first touch down in New Delhi from Jan 15 to Jan 16, where he will be warmly welcomed with a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India. President Murmu will host a grand state banquet in honor of the distinguished guest, setting the tone for a series of high-level meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other key ministers.
One of the highlights of President Tharman’s itinerary in New Delhi includes a poignant visit to the Raj Ghat, where he will pay homage to the revered Mahatma Gandhi, a symbol of peace and non-violence. The president will also engage with overseas Singaporeans at a special reception, celebrating the significant milestones of 60 years of Singapore-India diplomatic relations and Singapore’s 60th year of independence.
Moving beyond the capital city, President Tharman will proceed to Odisha from Jan 17 to Jan 18, where he is expected to gain insights into the state’s economic strategies and opportunities. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi will extend a warm welcome to the president, briefing him on Odisha’s development plans during an official meeting and dinner.
Strengthening Collaboration and Engagement
In Odisha, President Tharman will visit key institutions such as the World Skills Centre and a vaccine manufacturing plant, underscoring the importance of skills development and innovation in driving economic growth. Accompanied by a delegation of high-ranking officials and business leaders, the president aims to explore potential collaborations in various sectors, including skills development and economic partnerships.
Accompanying President Tharman on this momentous journey are his wife Mrs. Jane Ittogi Shanmugaratnam, Minister for Transport and Second Minister for Finance Chee Hong Tat, Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and National Development Sim Ann, as well as Members of Parliament Lim Biow Chuan, Joan Pereira, and Wan Rizal. Together, they will engage in meaningful dialogues with Indian thought leaders and industry experts to foster greater understanding and cooperation between Singapore and India.
As President Tharman embodies the spirit of diplomacy and partnership, his visit to India serves as a testament to the enduring friendship between two nations that share a common vision for a prosperous and interconnected future. Through shared experiences, mutual respect, and a commitment to collaboration, Singapore and India continue to pave the way for a brighter tomorrow.