India, Singapore deepen ties in telecom, food security, nuclear pacts

India and Singapore concluded agreements on Thursday focused on cooperation in telecommunications, food security, and nuclear technology at the fourth meeting of the India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR). Hosted by Singapore, the meeting explored collaboration in areas such as advanced manufacturing, digitalization, skill development, healthcare, connectivity, and sustainability.

During the meeting, the ministers witnessed the exchange of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between India's Food Safety and Standards Authority and Singapore's Food Agency for cooperation in food safety. They also signed a letter of intent (LoI) between India's Telecom Regulatory Authority and Singapore's Info-Communications Media Development Authority for cooperation in telecommunications and broadcasting.

Additionally, they agreed to facilitate cooperation in maritime heritage and discussed collaboration in nuclear technology, including small modular reactors (SMRs). While Singapore has not decided on adopting nuclear energy, the talks aimed to share knowledge and experience in this area. Singapore's Deputy Prime Minister and Trade Minister Gan Kim Yong mentioned the potential for establishing training centers for semiconductors and semiconductor companies relocating to India.

The two sides also explored collaboration in semiconductor industries, space technology, and cybersecurity. India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar described the meeting as "very productive" and highlighted discussions on advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, connectivity, digitalization, fintech, skilling, green economy, and clean energy.

The ISMR, established in 2022, focuses on advancing collaboration in crucial sectors such as technology, investments, and advanced manufacturing, meeting annually to alternate between Singapore and India.