The inaugural India-Singapore Futures Forum explores bilateral collaboration in critical technologies and addresses regional and global challenges.
Singapore, 28 April 2025 – The Institute of South Asian Studies (ISAS) at the National University of Singapore (NUS) hosted the inaugural India-Singapore Futures Forum at the Amara Hotel, bringing together policymakers, academics, and industry leaders to explore key opportunities for collaboration in critical technologies. The event marked a significant milestone as India and Singapore celebrate 60 years of diplomatic relations.
Associate Professor Iqbal Singh Sevea, Director of ISAS, opened the forum by highlighting the importance of emerging technologies in the bilateral relationship. “As India and Singapore celebrate their 60th anniversary, critical and emerging technologies have become an essential area for cooperation,” Prof Sevea remarked. The forum focused on four vital sectors: Artificial Intelligence, Semiconductors, Fintech, and Space. He emphasised that collaboration in these areas is crucial to addressing regional uncertainties and shaping a new future in a challenging geopolitical landscape.
His Excellency Dr Shilpak Ambule, High Commissioner of India to Singapore, also addressed the audience, reaffirming India’s commitment to fostering stronger technological and innovation ties with Singapore. In his keynote address, Professor Tommy Koh, Ambassador-at-Large at Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, shared a historical overview of the long-standing India-Singapore relationship. He reflected on Singapore’s early recognition by India following its independence in 1965, underscoring the enduring friendship and cooperation between the two nations. He noted the absence of disputes between the countries, with Singapore being India’s largest foreign investor and sixth-largest trading partner. He also highlighted the significance of the two countries’ joint naval exercises, one of India’s longest-running bilateral naval collaborations.
Looking to the future, Prof Koh highlighted the digital sphere as a key area of growth. “In 2024, Singapore and India signed four memoranda of understanding (MOUs) to enhance cooperation in digital technologies, including AI, 5G, cybersecurity, and quantum computing,” he said. Prof Koh emphasised the importance of continued collaboration between India and Singapore to face global challenges and explore opportunities together.
Chan Kah Mei, Director (Strategic Planning Division) at Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry, elaborated on Singapore’s strategic focus on emerging technologies. She stressed that AI and semiconductors are central to economic competitiveness and security. “Partnerships like those between India and Singapore are crucial for resilience, innovation, and inclusive growth,” she added. Chan further highlighted how such collaborations can set global standards for responsible technological development.
Professor C. Raja Mohan, Visiting Research Professor at ISAS, shared his strategic insights on how smaller states, like Singapore, can shape global influence through innovation and strategic partnerships. Drawing parallels with historical examples, Prof Mohan argued that despite limited resources, small countries can leverage global competition and influence, offering unique opportunities for collaboration in the digital age.
The India-Singapore Futures Forum underscored the importance of cross-border partnerships in the realms of AI, semiconductors, fintech, and space. By focusing on these critical sectors, the forum provided a platform for dialogue that will continue to drive technological innovation, regional stability, and sustainable growth for both nations.
Source: IN Diplomacy Reporters
