Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam embarks on a historic State Visit to India, celebrating six decades of strong bilateral relations and fostering future collaborations.
President Tharman Shanmugaratnam will undertake a State Visit to the Republic of India from 14 to 18 January 2025, at the invitation of President Droupadi Murmu. This momentous visit marks the 60th anniversary of Singapore-India diplomatic relations, reflecting the enduring partnership between the two nations.
The visit will be divided into two key locations: New Delhi from 15 to 16 January and Bhubaneswar, Odisha, from 17 to 18 January. In New Delhi, President Tharman will be accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, where he will meet President Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and other senior officials. President Murmu will also host a State Banquet in his honour. During his time in New Delhi, President Tharman will pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat and engage with Indian thought leaders in a private roundtable discussion.
Additionally, President Tharman will meet overseas Singaporeans at a reception celebrating the dual milestones of the 60th anniversary of Singapore-India diplomatic ties and Singapore’s 60th year of independence (SG60). A highlight of the visit will be the conferral of the Honorary Citizen Award on Mr Tarun Das, the former Director General of the Confederation of Indian Industry, in recognition of his contributions to fostering Singapore-India relations.
In Bhubaneswar, President Tharman will meet Odisha’s Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who will host him for an official dinner. Briefings on Odisha’s economic strategies and opportunities will provide insights into potential collaborations. President Tharman will also tour the World Skills Centre, established with support from Singapore’s Institute of Technical Education Education Services (ITEES) and the Asian Development Bank, as well as Bharat Biotech’s vaccine manufacturing plant. Cultural heritage visits in Odisha will further underscore the strong ties between the nations.
President Tharman will be accompanied by Mrs Jane Ittogi Shanmugaratnam, Minister for Transport and Second Minister for Finance Chee Hong Tat, Senior Minister of State Sim Ann, Members of Parliament, and officials from various ministries. A business delegation will also participate in the visit to explore collaborations in skills development and economic opportunities.
Source: MFA
