India and Singapore held their 16th Foreign Office Consultations in Singapore

India and Singapore on Friday reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relations and expressed satisfaction at the present level of engagements during their 16th Foreign Office Consultations in Singapore, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement on Saturday.

During the FOCs, co-chaired by Saurabh Kumar, Secretary (East), India’s Ministry of External Affairs and Albert Chua, Permanent Secretary of Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, both emphasized the importance of bilateral political exchanges to realise the full potential of the partnership.

The delegations also discussed enhancing cooperation in several areas, including, trade and investment, start-ups, and innovation, fintech, smart cities, infrastructure, skill development and connectivity, the Ministry noted.

Defence cooperation between both countries was also reviewed.

The two sides noted the increase in tourist arrivals from India in recent months and the need to further facilitate travel.

Given that Singapore is the current country coordinator for India in ASEAN, the two sides exchanged views on India-ASEAN engagements and raising of the relationship to a higher level.

Views were also exchanged on regional and international issues of mutual interest. The two sides reiterated their firm commitment to work towards further strengthening of India-Singapore multi-faceted relations and deepening of the strategic partnership.

The next round of FOCs will be held in New Delhi on mutually convenient dates.