The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Tuesday that the third round of the India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR) will be held in New Delhi on August 13, 2025.

The Indian ministers participating in the third ISMR include: Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister Nirmala Sitharaman; External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar; Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal; and Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

The Singaporean ministers attending are: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong; National Security Coordinator and Home Minister K. Shanmugam; Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan; Digital Development and Information Minister Josephine Teo; Manpower Minister Tan See Leng; and Acting Transport Minister Jeffrey Sio.

Conceived by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the ISMR serves as a unique mechanism to set a new agenda for India-Singapore cooperation. Its inaugural meeting was held in New Delhi in September 2022, followed by the second meeting in Singapore in August 2024.

India and Singapore share a comprehensive strategic partnership. The MEA stated that the third round of ISMR will identify opportunities to further broaden and deepen bilateral relations.

Marking this close relationship, on August 9, External Affairs Minister Jaishankar congratulated Singapore on its 60th National Day and appreciated the strong ties between the two nations.

Jaishankar said, “Congratulations to Foreign Minister @VivianBala, the Singapore government, and the people of Singapore on their 60th National Day.” He added, “Let us cherish our enduring friendship and multifaceted cooperation.”

Highlighting the importance of bilateral relations, the MEA noted that last month, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held extensive high-level talks during his visit to Singapore, underscoring India’s emphasis on strengthening ties with Singapore.

External Affairs Minister Jaishankar visited Singapore on July 13. During his visit, he met with Singaporean President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and held discussions with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong and Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan.

During these meetings, the leaders reviewed progress on Prime Minister Modi’s visit and the outcomes of the second round of the India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR). Key areas of discussion included investment, industrial parks, semiconductors, infrastructure, skill development, and connectivity.

They also exchanged views on ASEAN, the Indo-Pacific, and global developments. Strengthening economic ties further, External Affairs Minister Jaishankar met with former Senior Minister and National Security Coordinator, as well as designated Chairman of Temasek Holdings, Teo Chee Hean. Their discussions focused on India’s ongoing transformations and opportunities for Temasek to expand its investments in the country.

India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR)

The **India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable (ISMR)** is a high-level dialogue platform established to strengthen bilateral ties between India and Singapore. It brings together ministers and senior officials from both nations to discuss collaboration in areas like trade, investment, technology, and infrastructure. The ISMR reflects the deepening strategic partnership between the two countries, building on historical ties and shared economic interests since Singapore’s independence in 1965.

New Delhi

New Delhi, the capital of India, was officially established in 1911 during British colonial rule and designed by architects Edwin Lutyens and Herbert Baker. It replaced Kolkata (Calcutta) as the capital and features grand colonial-era landmarks like India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan (the Presidential Residence). Today, it serves as India’s political and cultural hub, blending historic monuments with modern urban life.

Singapore

Singapore is a vibrant city-state in Southeast Asia, known for its modern skyline, multicultural heritage, and bustling port. Founded as a British trading post in 1819 by Sir Stamford Raffles, it gained independence in 1965 and rapidly developed into a global financial hub. Today, it blends diverse cultures, lush green spaces, and iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay.

ASEAN

The **Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)** is a regional intergovernmental organization founded in 1967 to promote economic growth, political stability, and cultural cooperation among its member states. Originally consisting of Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand, it has since expanded to include 10 Southeast Asian nations. ASEAN plays a key role in fostering regional integration and addressing shared challenges like trade, security, and environmental issues.

Indo-Pacific

The Indo-Pacific is a vast biogeographic and geopolitical region spanning the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, known for its rich marine biodiversity and strategic importance. Historically, it has been a hub for trade, cultural exchange, and colonial competition, with ancient maritime routes like the Spice Trade connecting Asia, Africa, and the Pacific islands. Today, it is a focal point for economic growth, environmental conservation, and geopolitical tensions among major global powers.

Temasek Holdings

Temasek Holdings is a Singaporean state-owned investment company founded in 1974 by the government to manage its assets and promote economic development. Initially focused on local industrialization, it has since grown into a global investor with a diversified portfolio spanning sectors like technology, finance, and healthcare. As a key sovereign wealth fund, Temasek plays a vital role in Singapore’s financial stability and long-term growth.

National Day

“National Day” in many countries commemorates a significant historical event, such as independence, revolution, or the founding of the nation. For example, China’s National Day on October 1 celebrates the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, marked by parades and festivities. Similarly, France’s Bastille Day on July 14 honors the 1789 French Revolution, symbolizing freedom and unity.

Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is the Indian government department responsible for managing foreign relations and diplomatic affairs. Established in 1947 after India’s independence, it formulates and implements foreign policy, oversees embassies, and promotes international cooperation. The MEA plays a key role in representing India’s interests globally and fostering bilateral and multilateral ties.