<p>A surprising encounter between a money and a human was recently captured at Singapore’s Changi Airport. The video footage of an airport staff leading a monkey to the exit has gone viral on social media, sparking wholesome reactions from users.</p>

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<p>The video was initially posted on the short video platform TikTok and gained over a million views, but soon reached other social media platforms as it&nbsp;went viral.</p>

<p>The clip shows a woman dressed in an airport staff uniform calmly and politely guiding the monkey to the exit. While it is not known if the woman had prior training to interact with a primate, her gestures have gained applause from people on the internet.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/asteroid-2020-xr-1200ft-space-rock-skims-past-earth-after-47-years-781437">Asteroid 2020 XR: 1,200ft space rock skims past Earth after 47 years</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Social media reacts</strong></h2>

<p>The video has gained hundreds of comments from social media users, who are praising the woman for the good service as she guides the monkey towards the exit of the airport. While some others joked about the unusual incident.</p>

<p>A person joked, “He was searching for his missing Banana that’s worth $8.3 million,” referring to the recent banana artwork by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan that was bought by Crypto mogul Justin Sun for $6.2 million.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-moped-driving-thief-snatches-50-pairs-of-glasses-right-off-peoples-faces-781425">Japan: Moped-driving thief snatches 50 pairs of glasses right off people's faces</a></strong></p>

<p>People also praised the Singapore airport services. “That’s why Changi airport is one of the best airports, even monkey gets treated with respect,” a user wrote.</p>

<p>Another user wrote, “Monkeys are smart enough to understand visual cues! Can’t underestimate the intelligence of wildlife.”</p>

<p>There have also been other similar incidents of monkeys seen roaming inside the Changi Airport. Another video from the same airport was shared before the incident that showed other monkeys seen in different areas of the international airport.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A surprising encounter between a money and a human was recently captured at Singapore’s Changi Airport. The video footage of an airport staff leading a monkey to the exit has gone viral on social media, sparking wholesome reactions from users.

A surprising encounter between a money and a human was recently captured at Singapore’s Changi Airport. The video footage of an airport staff leading a monkey to the exit has gone viral on social media, sparking wholesome reactions from users. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mothership (@mothershipsg) × The video was initially posted on the short video platform TikTok and gained over a million views, but soon reached other social media platforms as it went viral. The clip shows a woman dressed in an airport staff uniform calmly and politely guiding the monkey to the exit. While it is not known if the woman had prior training to interact with a primate, her gestures have gained applause from people on the internet. Also read | Asteroid 2020 XR: 1,200ft space rock skims past Earth after 47 years Social media reacts The video has gained hundreds of comments from social media users, who are praising the woman for the good service as she guides the monkey towards the exit of the airport. While some others joked about the unusual incident. A person joked, “He was searching for his missing Banana that’s worth $8.3 million,” referring to the recent banana artwork by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan that was bought by Crypto mogul Justin Sun for $6.2 million. Also read | Japan: Moped-driving thief snatches 50 pairs of glasses right off people's faces People also praised the Singapore airport services. “That’s why Changi airport is one of the best airports, even monkey gets treated with respect,” a user wrote. Another user wrote, “Monkeys are smart enough to understand visual cues! Can’t underestimate the intelligence of wildlife.” There have also been other similar incidents of monkeys seen roaming inside the Changi Airport. Another video from the same airport was shared before the incident that showed other monkeys seen in different areas of the international airport. (With inputs from agencies)

Woman staff calmly talks to monkey at Singapore’s Changi Airport, video goes viral

<p>Singapore on Tuesday blocked access to 10 websites linked to foreign actors which the government said could be used to mount "hostile" disinformation campaigns against the city-state.</p>

<p>The move comes as Singapore prepares for elections to be held before November next year.</p>

<p>"These 10 inauthentic websites have been observed to masquerade as Singapore websites by spoofing or using terms associated with Singapore in their domain name and incorporating familiar local features and visuals," the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said in a statement.</p>

<p>"They also carried content on Singapore, some of which was generated by artificial intelligence. These are common tactics used by malicious foreign actors: build websites which can attract a local following that may subsequently be used as platforms to mount HICs," it said, referring to hostile information campaigns.</p>

<p>Two of the websites use domain names closely related to or similar to legitimate Singapore-linked websites.</p>

<p>They carried content "that may mislead their audience into thinking that the content is reflective of official positions or local sentiments," MHA said.</p>

<p>Seven of these websites used the word "Singapore" or associated terms in their domain name, and publish content related to the country.</p>

<p>The 10th presents itself as a Singapore news website, carrying mostly articles that we "were likely to have been written" using AI tools.</p>

<p>"These 10 inauthentic websites could potentially be used by foreign actors to mount HICs against Singapore, and it is in the public interest to issue directions... to disable access to them for users in Singapore," MHA said.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Singapore on Tuesday blocked access to 10 websites linked to foreign actors which the government said could be used to mount "hostile" disinformation campaigns against the city-state.

Singapore on Tuesday blocked access to 10 websites linked to foreign actors which the government said could be used to mount "hostile" disinformation campaigns against the city-state. The move comes as Singapore prepares for elections to be held before November next year. "These 10 inauthentic websites have been observed to masquerade as Singapore websites by spoofing or using terms associated with Singapore in their domain name and incorporating familiar local features and visuals," the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said in a statement. "They also carried content on Singapore, some of which was generated by artificial intelligence. These are common tactics used by malicious foreign actors: build websites which can attract a local following that may subsequently be used as platforms to mount HICs," it said, referring to hostile information campaigns. Two of the websites use domain names closely related to or similar to legitimate Singapore-linked websites. They carried content "that may mislead their audience into thinking that the content is reflective of official positions or local sentiments," MHA said. Seven of these websites used the word "Singapore" or associated terms in their domain name, and publish content related to the country. The 10th presents itself as a Singapore news website, carrying mostly articles that we "were likely to have been written" using AI tools. "These 10 inauthentic websites could potentially be used by foreign actors to mount HICs against Singapore, and it is in the public interest to issue directions... to disable access to them for users in Singapore," MHA said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Singapore blocks 10 foreign-linked websites ahead of elections

<p>Singapore has arrested a teenage boy who was allegedly planning an ISIS-inspired terror attack on a busy suburb, the interior minister said Friday (Oct 18), adding it was a "very close shave".</p>

<p>After watching Islamic State propaganda glorifying knife attacks, the 17-year-old visited the suburb to rehearse his attack before he was arrested in August, Home Minister K&nbsp;Shanmugam said.</p>

<p>"He was quite serious because he actually practised stabbing motions with the scissors. He checked out which place would cause death –&nbsp;basically the neck area –&nbsp;so he practised hitting at the neck," Shanmugam told reporters.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjfsNjAlZqJAxU7TWwGHefnM88QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-express-plane-escorted-by-singapore-jets-after-bomb-threat-767823" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-express-plane-escorted-by-singapore-jets-after-bomb-threat-767823&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjfsNjAlZqJAxU7TWwGHefnM88QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">Singapore fighter jets escort Air India Express plane after bomb threat</a></strong></p>

<p>"I would say this was a very close shave. It is very fortunate that ISD (Internal Security Department) arrested him in time."</p>

<p>The teenager, detained under the Internal Security Act, had allegedly planned a stabbing spree to coincide with the school holidays in September when the area would be teeming with people.</p>

<p>In a statement released on Friday, ISD said the teenager was exposed to the deluge of online extremist materials posted by the Islamic State group after Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7 last year.</p>

<p>"He joined various online groups which provided updates on ISIS's activities and bought into ISIS's rhetoric of promoting the use of violence to establish an Islamic caliphate," ISD said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjfsNjAlZqJAxU7TWwGHefnM88QxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-singapore-visit-has-given-turbo-boosting-to-ties-hc-simon-wong-762620" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-singapore-visit-has-given-turbo-boosting-to-ties-hc-simon-wong-762620&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjfsNjAlZqJAxU7TWwGHefnM88QxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">PM Modi's Singapore visit has given turbo boosting to ties: HC Simon Wong</a></strong></p>

<p>By January, "the youth had become a staunch ISIS supporter and aspired to die as a martyr while fighting for the group," it added.</p>

<p>He took a pledge of allegiance to IS and intended to travel to Syria to fight there, according to ISD.</p>

<p>The teenager acted alone as he was unable to radicalise other people, ISD added.</p>

<p>His family noticed him watching videos of radical preachers and advised him to stop, but he continued, using "codewords" when discussing his beliefs online, the department said.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


Singapore has arrested a teenage boy who was allegedly planning an ISIS-inspired terror attack on a busy suburb, the interior minister said Friday (Oct 18), adding it was a "very close shave".

Singapore has arrested a teenage boy who was allegedly planning an ISIS-inspired terror attack on a busy suburb, the interior minister said Friday (Oct 18), adding it was a "very close shave". After watching Islamic State propaganda glorifying knife attacks, the 17-year-old visited the suburb to rehearse his attack before he was arrested in August, Home Minister K Shanmugam said. "He was quite serious because he actually practised stabbing motions with the scissors. He checked out which place would cause death – basically the neck area – so he practised hitting at the neck," Shanmugam told reporters. Also read: Singapore fighter jets escort Air India Express plane after bomb threat "I would say this was a very close shave. It is very fortunate that ISD (Internal Security Department) arrested him in time." The teenager, detained under the Internal Security Act, had allegedly planned a stabbing spree to coincide with the school holidays in September when the area would be teeming with people. In a statement released on Friday, ISD said the teenager was exposed to the deluge of online extremist materials posted by the Islamic State group after Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7 last year. "He joined various online groups which provided updates on ISIS's activities and bought into ISIS's rhetoric of promoting the use of violence to establish an Islamic caliphate," ISD said. Also read: PM Modi's Singapore visit has given turbo boosting to ties: HC Simon Wong By January, "the youth had become a staunch ISIS supporter and aspired to die as a martyr while fighting for the group," it added. He took a pledge of allegiance to IS and intended to travel to Syria to fight there, according to ISD. The teenager acted alone as he was unable to radicalise other people, ISD added. His family noticed him watching videos of radical preachers and advised him to stop, but he continued, using "codewords" when discussing his beliefs online, the department said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Teen held in Singapore for plotting ISIS-style stabbing spree

<p>Singapore Armed Forces on Tuesday (Oct 15) scrambled two fighter jets to escort an Air India Express plane away from populated areas following a bomb threat before the aircraft landed safely at Singapore's Changi airport.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;Air India Express plane operating flight IX 684 from Madurai to Singapore had received a bomb threat.</p>

<p>Singapore's Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen said Air India Express received an email that there was a bomb on board flight AXB684 that was bound for Singapore.</p>

<p>"Two of our RSAF F-15SGs scrambled and escorted the plane away from populated areas, to finally land safely at Singapore Changi Airport at around 10:04 pm tonight," he said in a series of posts on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">(1/3) Air India Express received an email that there was a bomb on board flight AXB684 that was bound for Singapore. Two of our RSAF F-15SGs scrambled and escorted the plane away from populated areas, to finally land safely at Singapore Changi Airport at around 10:04pm tonight. <a href="https://t.co/tOzo6wgT5E">pic.twitter.com/tOzo6wgT5E</a></p>
— Ng Eng Hen (@Ng_Eng_Hen) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ng_Eng_Hen/status/1846214516461523182?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indigo-flight-bound-for-lucknow-emergency-lands-in-jaipur-after-another-bomb-threat-767743"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;IndiGo flight bound for Lucknow emergency lands in Jaipur after another bomb threat</strong></a></p>

<p>The Ground Based Air Defence (GBAD) systems and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) were also activated. Once on the ground, the plane was handed to the airport police, he said and added that investigations are going on.<br />
<br />
<em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


Singapore Armed Forces on Tuesday (Oct 15) scrambled two fighter jets to escort an Air India Express plane away from populated areas following a bomb threat before the aircraft landed safely at Singapore's Changi airport.

Singapore Armed Forces on Tuesday (Oct 15) scrambled two fighter jets to escort an Air India Express plane away from populated areas following a bomb threat before the aircraft landed safely at Singapore's Changi airport. The Air India Express plane operating flight IX 684 from Madurai to Singapore had received a bomb threat. Singapore's Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen said Air India Express received an email that there was a bomb on board flight AXB684 that was bound for Singapore. "Two of our RSAF F-15SGs scrambled and escorted the plane away from populated areas, to finally land safely at Singapore Changi Airport at around 10:04 pm tonight," he said in a series of posts on X. (1/3) Air India Express received an email that there was a bomb on board flight AXB684 that was bound for Singapore. Two of our RSAF F-15SGs scrambled and escorted the plane away from populated areas, to finally land safely at Singapore Changi Airport at around 10:04pm tonight. pic.twitter.com/tOzo6wgT5E — Ng Eng Hen (@Ng_Eng_Hen) October 15, 2024 × Also read | IndiGo flight bound for Lucknow emergency lands in Jaipur after another bomb threat The Ground Based Air Defence (GBAD) systems and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) were also activated. Once on the ground, the plane was handed to the airport police, he said and added that investigations are going on. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Singapore fighter jets escort Air India Express plane after bomb threat

<p>Singapore's Indian-origin former transport minister S&nbsp;Iswaran&nbsp;on Monday began his one-year&nbsp;jail term&nbsp;in a&nbsp;corruption&nbsp;case, opting not to appeal his conviction, and apologised "unreservedly" to the nation.</p>

<p>Iswaran, 62, was handed the jail sentence on Thursday last week for obtaining illegal gifts worth about $313,200 over seven years from two businessmen, and for obstruction of justice.</p>

<p>Another 30 charges were taken into consideration during sentencing.</p>

<p>In a statement on Facebook earlier in the day, the&nbsp;former minister&nbsp;said he "will not be appealing the sentence handed down by the court".</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/former-singapore-minister-iswaran-sentenced-to-a-year-in-prison-in-rare-corruption-case-764211"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Former Singapore Minister Iswaran Sentenced To A Year In Prison In Rare Corruption Case</strong></a></p>

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<p>The veteran politician had pleaded guilty on September 24.</p>

<p>"It was important to me that the public prosecutor amended the charges against me under the&nbsp;Prevention of Corruption Act&nbsp;to those under Section 165 of the&nbsp;Penal Code&nbsp;regarding the acceptance of gifts by public servants. I accept that, as a minister what I did was wrong under Section 165. I accept full responsibility for my actions and apologise unreservedly to all Singaporeans," Iswaran said.</p>

<p>Section 165 relates to a&nbsp;public servant&nbsp;obtaining valuable items from someone who could be connected in proceedings or business linked to him or his official functions.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-origin-singapore-ex-minister-s-iswaran-sentenced-to-12-months-in-jail-in-graft-case-764028"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Indian-origin Singapore ex-minister S Iswaran sentenced to 12 months in jail in graft case</strong></a></p>

<p>"My family's well-being and the emotional toll on my loved ones of a long trial extending well into 2025, and possibly beyond, has also weighed heavily on me. The past 15 months have already been the most difficult. With this decision, I hope we can put the pain and anguish behind us, move forward and rebuild our lives together," Iswaran added.</p>

<p>The jail sentence meted out to Iswaran was longer than the prosecution had requested. His lead lawyer, Davinder Singh, had argued for no more than eight weeks' jail, while Deputy Attorney-General&nbsp;Tai Wei Shyong&nbsp;pushed for a jail term of six to seven months.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Singapore's Indian-origin former transport minister S Iswaran on Monday began his one-year jail term in a corruption case, opting not to appeal his conviction, and apologised "unreservedly" to the nation.

Singapore's Indian-origin former transport minister S Iswaran on Monday began his one-year jail term in a corruption case, opting not to appeal his conviction, and apologised "unreservedly" to the nation. Iswaran, 62, was handed the jail sentence on Thursday last week for obtaining illegal gifts worth about $313,200 over seven years from two businessmen, and for obstruction of justice. Another 30 charges were taken into consideration during sentencing. In a statement on Facebook earlier in the day, the former minister said he "will not be appealing the sentence handed down by the court". Watch | Former Singapore Minister Iswaran Sentenced To A Year In Prison In Rare Corruption Case × The veteran politician had pleaded guilty on September 24. "It was important to me that the public prosecutor amended the charges against me under the Prevention of Corruption Act to those under Section 165 of the Penal Code regarding the acceptance of gifts by public servants. I accept that, as a minister what I did was wrong under Section 165. I accept full responsibility for my actions and apologise unreservedly to all Singaporeans," Iswaran said. Section 165 relates to a public servant obtaining valuable items from someone who could be connected in proceedings or business linked to him or his official functions. Also read | Indian-origin Singapore ex-minister S Iswaran sentenced to 12 months in jail in graft case "My family's well-being and the emotional toll on my loved ones of a long trial extending well into 2025, and possibly beyond, has also weighed heavily on me. The past 15 months have already been the most difficult. With this decision, I hope we can put the pain and anguish behind us, move forward and rebuild our lives together," Iswaran added. The jail sentence meted out to Iswaran was longer than the prosecution had requested. His lead lawyer, Davinder Singh, had argued for no more than eight weeks' jail, while Deputy Attorney-General Tai Wei Shyong pushed for a jail term of six to seven months. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Indian-origin Singapore ex-minister S Iswaran begins 1-year jail sentence, apologises to family and country

Property tycoon Ong Beng Seng was charged in court on Friday with abetting former Singapore transport minister S Iswaran’s offences. Watch in for more details!

Singapore Charges Tycoon Ong Beng Seng Over Ex-minister Case

<p>S Iswaran, an Indian-origin former transport minister and previously part of the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) in Singapore has been sentenced to 12 months in jail in graft case and for obstructing justice by the High Court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iswaran has been charged with&nbsp;four counts of accepting more than $300,000 worth of gifts&nbsp;from someone involved with him as a public servant and one charge of obstructing justice.</p>

<p>In what is being dubbed as the first jailing of an ex-cabinet leader, the court said Iswaran would be&nbsp;allowed to remain on bail for the next few days but has to begin his jail term on Monday (Oct 7).</p>

<p>It was last week that Iswaran pleaded guilty to the charges with the prosecutors reducing the total charges from 35 to five.&nbsp;According to the charge sheet filed earlier, Iswaran received tickets to English Premier League football matches, musicals, a flight on Ong's private plane and tickets to the Singapore Formula 1 Grand Prix as alleged bribes.</p>

<p>Notably, this is the first ministerial corruption trial and sentencing in Singapore in nearly half a century - reflecting the gravity of the situation. The last case was in 1986 when&nbsp;the national development minister was investigated for allegedly accepting bribes. The minister died before he could be charged in court.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/singapores-ex-minister-pleads-guilty-on-charges-for-accepting-illegal-gifts-761696"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Singapore's Ex-Minister Pleads Guilty On Charges For Accepting Illegal Gifts</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Singapore's no-corruption image&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, the island country pays its top officials among the world's highest public salaries and prides itself on low corruption.</p>

<p>According to the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index, the Southeast Asian country is ranked as the fifth-least corrupt country in the world. Hence, allegations of corruption are taken extremely seriously.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iswaran was selected as an MP&nbsp;way back in 1997 and appointed to the cabinet in 2006. As the transport minister, his key focus area was to rebuild Singapore as an air hub in the aftermath of the pandemic and present the country as a maritime centre.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-minister-subramaniam-iswaran-resigns-after-being-charged-in-rare-corruption-case-681122" target="_blank"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Singapore minister Subramaniam Iswaran resigns after being charged in rare corruption case</strong></a></p>

<p>Iswaran also gained popularity for his role in bringing the Formula One night race to the country in 2008.</p>

<p>Prior to being involved in the legal troubles, Iswaran also served as Singapore’s minister-in-charge of trade relations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


S Iswaran, an Indian-origin former transport minister and previously part of the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) in Singapore has been sentenced to 12 months in jail in graft case and for obstructing justice by the High Court.

S Iswaran, an Indian-origin former transport minister and previously part of the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) in Singapore has been sentenced to 12 months in jail in graft case and for obstructing justice by the High Court. Iswaran has been charged with four counts of accepting more than $300,000 worth of gifts from someone involved with him as a public servant and one charge of obstructing justice. In what is being dubbed as the first jailing of an ex-cabinet leader, the court said Iswaran would be allowed to remain on bail for the next few days but has to begin his jail term on Monday (Oct 7). It was last week that Iswaran pleaded guilty to the charges with the prosecutors reducing the total charges from 35 to five. According to the charge sheet filed earlier, Iswaran received tickets to English Premier League football matches, musicals, a flight on Ong's private plane and tickets to the Singapore Formula 1 Grand Prix as alleged bribes. Notably, this is the first ministerial corruption trial and sentencing in Singapore in nearly half a century - reflecting the gravity of the situation. The last case was in 1986 when the national development minister was investigated for allegedly accepting bribes. The minister died before he could be charged in court. Watch | Singapore's Ex-Minister Pleads Guilty On Charges For Accepting Illegal Gifts × Singapore's no-corruption image Notably, the island country pays its top officials among the world's highest public salaries and prides itself on low corruption. According to the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index, the Southeast Asian country is ranked as the fifth-least corrupt country in the world. Hence, allegations of corruption are taken extremely seriously. Iswaran was selected as an MP way back in 1997 and appointed to the cabinet in 2006. As the transport minister, his key focus area was to rebuild Singapore as an air hub in the aftermath of the pandemic and present the country as a maritime centre. Also read | Singapore minister Subramaniam Iswaran resigns after being charged in rare corruption case Iswaran also gained popularity for his role in bringing the Formula One night race to the country in 2008. Prior to being involved in the legal troubles, Iswaran also served as Singapore’s minister-in-charge of trade relations. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian-origin Singapore ex-minister S Iswaran sentenced to 12 months in jail in graft case

Senior cabinet minister Subramaniam Iswaran of Singapore's government was found guilty in a high-profile trial that captivated the affluent country and resulted in a 12-month prison sentence.

Former Singapore Minister Iswaran Sentenced To A Year In Prison In Rare Corruption Case

Singapore: Former Transport Minister Sentenced To Prison In Rare Corruption Case

<p>Singapore's high commissioner to India Simon Wong has said that the recent visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to his country has given a "turbo boosting" of ties. The Indian PM was on a visit to Singapore earlier this month. The visit came after a gap of over five years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to WION's foreign affairs editor Sidhant Sibal, Singapore's high commissioner to India pointed to cooperation in semiconductor sectors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>High Commissioner Wong said, "We feel that even as a small country, we can work very, very closely with India on its semiconductor journey because this journey is not a one, two-year process. Is going to be a long drawn, 10-year process to grow". This comes as a pact was signed on semiconductors in developing capacity building during PM Modi’s visit.</p>

<p>He highlighted Singapore's investment plan of over $45 billion in the next few years in India. He also spoke on India-China ties, quad, RCEP, etc. Here’s the full interview:</p>

<p><strong>WION: How do you see the India-Singapore ties, especially in the backdrop of PM Modi's recent visit to your country?</strong><br />
Simon Wong: I want to thank WION, Because of your full coverage of Prime Minister Modi's visit to Singapore, many people across India and Singapore get to know the spur in that relationship between the two countries. In particular, I think the upgrading of relationship ahead of our 60th anniversary into a comprehensive strategic partnership and the visit by Prime Minister Modi ji has set the bar very high for our bilateral relationship, and we have looked into several new areas, in fact, six new areas of collaboration with India. And I feel very, very confident that this new turbo boosting of that relationship can continue.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION: One of the key outcomes was the semiconductor pact. Much talked about the pact. How is this semiconductor pact going to help India with the Singaporean's know-how?</strong><br />
Simon Wong: We feel very, very strongly about India's push for a semiconductor supply chain, and we feel the willingness at all levels, at the Union level and also at the state level, to push through this ambition. Singapore represents 10 per cent of all chip-making exports approval. And we have 20 per cent of the market on chip-making equipment. We feel that even as a small country, we can work very, very closely with India on its semiconductor journey because this journey is not a one, two-year process. Is going to be a long-drawn, 10-year process to grow, and for India to grow with fewer impediments, we feel that Singapore can collaborate and partake.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION: So what next for the relationship?&nbsp;</strong><br />
Simon Wong: I think what we want to do for next year, during the 60th anniversary, is to look beyond our concentration of investment in the southern states. The southern states are very, very welcoming of Singapore investment, and we are very familiar with them. I want to take the opportunity of the 60th anniversary to look at new areas of growth. I want to quote India's G20 sherpa, Amitabh Kant, who said that India needs 10 states as the engine of growth. In my view, 10 is a really critical mass, and we want to look at new areas. We want to look at UP, Odisha, and MP and I think increasingly we see the willingness of Rajasthan to engage us. So all these four states, we want to do some form of engagement and understanding next year. And also next year, I would like to see more green energy ports and facilities to be put online. Now we have one in Tuticorin, and we are looking at two, or three other ports. We hope that it can be lined up by next year.</p>

<p><strong>WION: India hasn't joined RCEP. What is your position? And we know during the prime minister's visit, many big-ticket investments were announced. So what kind of figures are you looking at?</strong><br />
Simon Wong: Of course, for Singapore, which is very, very trade-based, and we like FTAs, both sub-regional or bilateral, we always have high hopes for India to join RCEP, but we fully understand where India is coming from. We are most willing to wait for India to reconsider RCEP, but at the same time, India is looking at other FTAs, like GCC, which is really a good thing for India. Number two, I think, big-ticket investments coming up, Prime Minister Modi ji, in his roundtable with 18 of our key Singapore businesses, is kindly of pleasantly surprised when all of them basically told Prime Minister Modi ji that they will double or triple their investments in India in the next three to five years. So if I look at the figures, on the average, we do 15 billion US dollars a year of investment here. If I double or triple it, it will be very, very close to $45 billion to $50 billion. So I hope we are successful in pushing this investment.</p>

<p><strong>WION: So my last question to you is, international affairs, India-China relationship. What's your view? Because Singapore has good relationships with both India and China.</strong><br />
Simon Wong: My own view as a small country is that big countries should collaborate and have good relationships with each other. So as friends of both China and India, we want to see a better relationship between the two, between our two big neighbours of ours. And I feel that there are really some green shoots coming up in the discussion. There are high-level discussions between China and India. Hopefully, there is going to be a top level discussion coming up soon, and I hope some of these pain points can be resolved diplomatically.</p>

<p><strong>WION: Your sense on Quad?</strong><br />
Simon Wong: My sense of Quad is a work in progress, and I think many of the Quad countries are looking ahead at security collaboration, security views, and linking the Indo-Pacific area, we welcome that as a sub-regional kind of forum to talk about things. For me, for Singapore, my central point of gravity is always ASEAN, and we feel that ASEAN as the centrality is very big and important in this part of the world as an anchor point of solution.&nbsp;</p>


Singapore's high commissioner to India Simon Wong has said that the recent visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to his country has given a "turbo boosting" of ties.

Singapore's high commissioner to India Simon Wong has said that the recent visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to his country has given a "turbo boosting" of ties. The Indian PM was on a visit to Singapore earlier this month. The visit came after a gap of over five years. Speaking to WION's foreign affairs editor Sidhant Sibal, Singapore's high commissioner to India pointed to cooperation in semiconductor sectors. High Commissioner Wong said, "We feel that even as a small country, we can work very, very closely with India on its semiconductor journey because this journey is not a one, two-year process. Is going to be a long drawn, 10-year process to grow". This comes as a pact was signed on semiconductors in developing capacity building during PM Modi’s visit. He highlighted Singapore's investment plan of over $45 billion in the next few years in India. He also spoke on India-China ties, quad, RCEP, etc. Here’s the full interview: WION: How do you see the India-Singapore ties, especially in the backdrop of PM Modi's recent visit to your country? Simon Wong: I want to thank WION, Because of your full coverage of Prime Minister Modi's visit to Singapore, many people across India and Singapore get to know the spur in that relationship between the two countries. In particular, I think the upgrading of relationship ahead of our 60th anniversary into a comprehensive strategic partnership and the visit by Prime Minister Modi ji has set the bar very high for our bilateral relationship, and we have looked into several new areas, in fact, six new areas of collaboration with India. And I feel very, very confident that this new turbo boosting of that relationship can continue. WION: One of the key outcomes was the semiconductor pact. Much talked about the pact. How is this semiconductor pact going to help India with the Singaporean's know-how? Simon Wong: We feel very, very strongly about India's push for a semiconductor supply chain, and we feel the willingness at all levels, at the Union level and also at the state level, to push through this ambition. Singapore represents 10 per cent of all chip-making exports approval. And we have 20 per cent of the market on chip-making equipment. We feel that even as a small country, we can work very, very closely with India on its semiconductor journey because this journey is not a one, two-year process. Is going to be a long-drawn, 10-year process to grow, and for India to grow with fewer impediments, we feel that Singapore can collaborate and partake. WION: So what next for the relationship? Simon Wong: I think what we want to do for next year, during the 60th anniversary, is to look beyond our concentration of investment in the southern states. The southern states are very, very welcoming of Singapore investment, and we are very familiar with them. I want to take the opportunity of the 60th anniversary to look at new areas of growth. I want to quote India's G20 sherpa, Amitabh Kant, who said that India needs 10 states as the engine of growth. In my view, 10 is a really critical mass, and we want to look at new areas. We want to look at UP, Odisha, and MP and I think increasingly we see the willingness of Rajasthan to engage us. So all these four states, we want to do some form of engagement and understanding next year. And also next year, I would like to see more green energy ports and facilities to be put online. Now we have one in Tuticorin, and we are looking at two, or three other ports. We hope that it can be lined up by next year. WION: India hasn't joined RCEP. What is your position? And we know during the prime minister's visit, many big-ticket investments were announced. So what kind of figures are you looking at? Simon Wong: Of course, for Singapore, which is very, very trade-based, and we like FTAs, both sub-regional or bilateral, we always have high hopes for India to join RCEP, but we fully understand where India is coming from. We are most willing to wait for India to reconsider RCEP, but at the same time, India is looking at other FTAs, like GCC, which is really a good thing for India. Number two, I think, big-ticket investments coming up, Prime Minister Modi ji, in his roundtable with 18 of our key Singapore businesses, is kindly of pleasantly surprised when all of them basically told Prime Minister Modi ji that they will double or triple their investments in India in the next three to five years. So if I look at the figures, on the average, we do 15 billion US dollars a year of investment here. If I double or triple it, it will be very, very close to $45 billion to $50 billion. So I hope we are successful in pushing this investment. WION: So my last question to you is, international affairs, India-China relationship. What's your view? Because Singapore has good relationships with both India and China. Simon Wong: My own view as a small country is that big countries should collaborate and have good relationships with each other. So as friends of both China and India, we want to see a better relationship between the two, between our two big neighbours of ours. And I feel that there are really some green shoots coming up in the discussion. There are high-level discussions between China and India. Hopefully, there is going to be a top level discussion coming up soon, and I hope some of these pain points can be resolved diplomatically. WION: Your sense on Quad? Simon Wong: My sense of Quad is a work in progress, and I think many of the Quad countries are looking ahead at security collaboration, security views, and linking the Indo-Pacific area, we welcome that as a sub-regional kind of forum to talk about things. For me, for Singapore, my central point of gravity is always ASEAN, and we feel that ASEAN as the centrality is very big and important in this part of the world as an anchor point of solution.

PM Modi's Singapore visit has given turbo boosting to ties: HC Simon Wong

A survey finds Hong Kong is once again the leading financial centre in Asia, knocking Singapore back to second place in the region. This is excellent news for Hong Kong's financial industry, which has endured hardships due to pandemic restrictions that drove many employees from the city.

Hong Kong Overtakes Singapore in World Financial Center Ranking

Singaporean former transport minister S Iswaran pleaded guilty for accepting gifts while in office. Watch to know more.

Singapore's Former Minister Pleads Guilty

Singaporean former transport minister S. Iswaran pleaded guilty to bribery charges on Tuesday after more severe allegations were dropped, local media said, as the first graft trial of a political office holder for more than four decades began in the city-state.

Singapore's Ex-Minister Pleads Guilty On Charges For Accepting Illegal Gifts

<p>S Iswaran, an Indian-origin former transport minister and previously part of the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) in Singapore has pleaded guilty to receiving&nbsp;gifts such as concert tickets and golf clubs valued at 403,000 Singapore dollars ($312,000), graft and obstructing justice.</p>

<p>After pleading guilty, the prosecutors reduced the charges against Iswaran from 35 to five, according to local media reports.&nbsp;The remaining 30 charges will be taken into consideration for sentencing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the charge sheet filed earlier,&nbsp;Iswaran received tickets to English Premier League football matches, musicals, a flight on Ong's private plane and tickets to the Singapore Formula 1 Grand Prix as alleged bribes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is the first ministerial corruption trial in Singapore in nearly half a century - reflecting the gravity of the situation Iswaran finds himself in. The last case was in 1986 when&nbsp;the national development minister was investigated for allegedly accepting bribes. The minister died before he could be charged in court.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Row over South Africa's Deputy President's lifestyle, Singapore Transport Minister under probe&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/row-over-south-africas-deputy-presidents-lifestyle-singapore-transport-minister-under-probe-wion-615052/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>Singapore's no-corruption image&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, the island country pays its top officials among the world's highest public salaries and prides itself on low corruption.</p>

<p>According to the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index, the Southeast Asian country is ranked as the fifth-least corrupt country in the world. Hence, allegations of corruption are taken extremely seriously.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iswaran was selected as an MP&nbsp;way back in 1997 and appointed to the cabinet in 2006. As the transport minister, his key focus area was to rebuild Singapore as an air hub in the aftermath of the pandemic and present the country as a maritime centre.</p>

<p>Iswaran also gained popularity for his role in bringing the Formula One night race to the country in 2008.</p>

<p>Prior to being involved in the legal troubles, Iswaran also served as Singapore’s minister-in-charge of trade relations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/singapore-minister-subramaniam-iswaran-resigns-after-being-charged-in-rare-corruption-case-681122"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Singapore minister Subramaniam Iswaran resigns after being charged in rare corruption case</strong></a></p>

<p>He resigned from the party in January this year after Prime Minister&nbsp;Lee Hsien Loong had asked him to go on leave.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I reject the allegations in the charges and will now focus on clearing my name. Given the circumstances, I feel it is right for me to resign from Cabinet, as a Member of Parliament and as a member of the PAP,” Iswaran said in the resignation letter.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


S Iswaran, an Indian-origin former transport minister and previously part of the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) in Singapore has pleaded guilty to receiving gifts such as concert tickets and golf clubs valued at 403,000 Singapore dollars ($312,000), graft and obstructing justice.

S Iswaran, an Indian-origin former transport minister and previously part of the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) in Singapore has pleaded guilty to receiving gifts such as concert tickets and golf clubs valued at 403,000 Singapore dollars ($312,000), graft and obstructing justice. After pleading guilty, the prosecutors reduced the charges against Iswaran from 35 to five, according to local media reports. The remaining 30 charges will be taken into consideration for sentencing. According to the charge sheet filed earlier, Iswaran received tickets to English Premier League football matches, musicals, a flight on Ong's private plane and tickets to the Singapore Formula 1 Grand Prix as alleged bribes. This is the first ministerial corruption trial in Singapore in nearly half a century - reflecting the gravity of the situation Iswaran finds himself in. The last case was in 1986 when the national development minister was investigated for allegedly accepting bribes. The minister died before he could be charged in court. WATCH | Row over South Africa's Deputy President's lifestyle, Singapore Transport Minister under probe Singapore's no-corruption image Notably, the island country pays its top officials among the world's highest public salaries and prides itself on low corruption. According to the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index, the Southeast Asian country is ranked as the fifth-least corrupt country in the world. Hence, allegations of corruption are taken extremely seriously. Iswaran was selected as an MP way back in 1997 and appointed to the cabinet in 2006. As the transport minister, his key focus area was to rebuild Singapore as an air hub in the aftermath of the pandemic and present the country as a maritime centre. Iswaran also gained popularity for his role in bringing the Formula One night race to the country in 2008. Prior to being involved in the legal troubles, Iswaran also served as Singapore’s minister-in-charge of trade relations. Also read | Singapore minister Subramaniam Iswaran resigns after being charged in rare corruption case He resigned from the party in January this year after Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong had asked him to go on leave. “I reject the allegations in the charges and will now focus on clearing my name. Given the circumstances, I feel it is right for me to resign from Cabinet, as a Member of Parliament and as a member of the PAP,” Iswaran said in the resignation letter. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian-origin Singapore ex-minister S Iswaran pleads guilty in corruption case

During Pope Francis's visit to Singapore, he advocated for fair wages for migrant workers, highlighting the need for ethical considerations in technology and social justice.

Pope Francis: Migrant workers in Singapore must be paid fair wages

PM Modi returned to New Delhi after completing his three-day visit to Brunei and Singapore. Watch WION to know the highlights of PM Modi's Singapore visit.

PM Modi's Singapore Visit: PM Modi asks Singapore to invest in India

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a productive meeting with his Singapore counterpart Lawrence Wong during which they elevated the bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership. The two leaders also oversaw the exchange of four MoUs after the talks.

India, Singapore sign MoUs on digital technology, health and skill development

After a ceremonial welcome in Singapore and meeting with his counterpart Lawrence Wong on Wednesday Prime Minister Modi held a roundtable meeting with the country's top Business leaders earlier today. Watch in for more details!

PM Modi in Singapore: Indian PM Modi meets CEOs of top Businesses in Singapore

#Gravitas | Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Singapore has sparked a new era of collaboration between the two nations. From groundbreaking tech agreements to significant investments, discover how these developments are set to transform business, technology, and beyond. Don’t miss out on the details of these pivotal deals and their impact on both economies. Watch in for more details!

India & Singapore forge powerful new alliances: What it means for business and tech

Indian PM Modi meets Singapore counterpart Lawrence Wong, 4 MoUs signed

PM Modi in Singapore: Indian PM meets CEOs of top Businesses in Singapore

India & Singapore signed multiple MoUs in the presence of PM Modi and PM Wong. The MoUs were signed in the fields of digital technologies, semiconductors, health cooperation and skill development. The MoUs aim to strengthen cooperation between India and Singapore further. PM Modi called Singapore an inspiration for every developing country. Watch in for more details!

India, Singapore sign MoUs in semiconductors, digital tech and more

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<p>India and Singapore signed many important Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on Wednesday (September 05), aimed at boosting cooperation in key sectors including digital technology, semiconductors, healthcare, and skills development.</p>

<p>These agreements were formalised after a meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a visit to Singapore, and his Singaporean counterpart, Lawrence Wong.</p>

<h2><strong>Key agreements between India and Singapore</strong></h2>

<h2><strong>Digital technologies</strong></h2>

<p>The first MoU focuses on collaboration in digital technologies and was signed between India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and Singapore’s Ministry of Digital Development and Information.</p>

<p>This agreement is designed to enhance cooperation in areas like Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), cyber security, 5G, and cutting-edge technologies such as quantum computing, supercomputing, and artificial intelligence.</p>

<h2><strong>Semiconductors</strong></h2>

<p>In the semiconductor sector, India and Singapore have agreed to collaborate through a&nbsp;MoU signed by India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankars-ramayana-doctrine-five-point-guide-for-indias-global-leadership-ambition-755915">Jaishankar’s Ramayana doctrine: Five-point guide for India's global leadership ambition</a></strong></p>

<p>This partnership will help establish a semiconductor cluster, promote talent development in semiconductor design and production, and encourage Singaporean investments in India. Singapore is a significant player in the global semiconductor supply chain, producing around 10% of the world's chips and roughly 20% of semiconductor manufacturing equipment.</p>

<h2><strong>Education</strong></h2>

<p>Another MoU, for education and skills development, was signed by India’s Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Singapore’s Ministry of Education. This agreement will focus on advancing technical and vocational education and training.</p>

<h2><strong>Health</strong></h2>

<p>The final MoU between India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Singapore’s Ministry of Health focused on cooperation in the health and pharmaceutical fields. This MoU aims to boost joint research and innovation, particularly in areas of shared interest, and to foster collaboration in human resource development for healthcare.</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi’s visit to Sing</strong>apore</h2>

<p>During his visit, Prime Minister Modi received a ceremonial welcome at Singapore’s Parliament House and engaged in discussions with Lawrence Wong. In his address, Modi referred to Singapore as more than just a partner, calling it an inspiration for all developing nations.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Welcome PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> to Singapore! Delighted to have the chance to catch up over a meal at the Istana, before the official meetings tomorrow. <a href="https://t.co/6ceCrKwbAF">pic.twitter.com/6ceCrKwbAF</a></p>
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<p>Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, posted on X, "A new chapter in - ties: Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established. PM @narendramodi and PM @LawrenceWongST held a productive meeting in Singapore today."</p>

<p>He added, “The leaders agreed to elevate the ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. They reviewed various aspects of the bilateral relationship, covering areas like advanced manufacturing, digitalisation, healthcare, skills development, and sustainability.”</p>

<p>On Wednesday, Wong welcomed Modi to a private dinner at the Istana, Singapore’s presidential palace. Video released by the Singaporean leader’s office showed the two leaders embracing and chatting before the meal, accompanied by&nbsp;India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan.</p>

<p>“Delighted to have the chance to catch up over a meal at the Istana, before the official meetings tomorrow,” Wong shared on X. Modi, in a separate post, described their meeting as having an “excellent discussion on a wide range of issues,” adding, “India cherishes the friendship with Singapore.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


India and Singapore signed many important Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on Wednesday (September 05), aimed at boosting cooperation in key sectors including digital technology, semiconductors, healthcare, and skills development.

India and Singapore signed many important Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on Wednesday (September 05), aimed at boosting cooperation in key sectors including digital technology, semiconductors, healthcare, and skills development. These agreements were formalised after a meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a visit to Singapore, and his Singaporean counterpart, Lawrence Wong. Key agreements between India and Singapore Digital technologies The first MoU focuses on collaboration in digital technologies and was signed between India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and Singapore’s Ministry of Digital Development and Information. This agreement is designed to enhance cooperation in areas like Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), cyber security, 5G, and cutting-edge technologies such as quantum computing, supercomputing, and artificial intelligence. Semiconductors In the semiconductor sector, India and Singapore have agreed to collaborate through a MoU signed by India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry. Also read: Jaishankar’s Ramayana doctrine: Five-point guide for India's global leadership ambition This partnership will help establish a semiconductor cluster, promote talent development in semiconductor design and production, and encourage Singaporean investments in India. Singapore is a significant player in the global semiconductor supply chain, producing around 10% of the world's chips and roughly 20% of semiconductor manufacturing equipment. Education Another MoU, for education and skills development, was signed by India’s Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Singapore’s Ministry of Education. This agreement will focus on advancing technical and vocational education and training. Health The final MoU between India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Singapore’s Ministry of Health focused on cooperation in the health and pharmaceutical fields. This MoU aims to boost joint research and innovation, particularly in areas of shared interest, and to foster collaboration in human resource development for healthcare. PM Modi’s visit to Singapore During his visit, Prime Minister Modi received a ceremonial welcome at Singapore’s Parliament House and engaged in discussions with Lawrence Wong. In his address, Modi referred to Singapore as more than just a partner, calling it an inspiration for all developing nations. Welcome PM @narendramodi to Singapore! Delighted to have the chance to catch up over a meal at the Istana, before the official meetings tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/6ceCrKwbAF — Lawrence Wong (@LawrenceWongST) September 4, 2024 × Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, posted on X, "A new chapter in - ties: Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established. PM @narendramodi and PM @LawrenceWongST held a productive meeting in Singapore today." He added, “The leaders agreed to elevate the ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. They reviewed various aspects of the bilateral relationship, covering areas like advanced manufacturing, digitalisation, healthcare, skills development, and sustainability.” On Wednesday, Wong welcomed Modi to a private dinner at the Istana, Singapore’s presidential palace. Video released by the Singaporean leader’s office showed the two leaders embracing and chatting before the meal, accompanied by India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Singapore’s Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan. “Delighted to have the chance to catch up over a meal at the Istana, before the official meetings tomorrow,” Wong shared on X. Modi, in a separate post, described their meeting as having an “excellent discussion on a wide range of issues,” adding, “India cherishes the friendship with Singapore.” (With inputs from agencies)

India-Singapore ties strengthen with new MoUs on semiconductors and digital tech

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Brunei on a historic two-day visit on Tuesday for a series of high-level engagements that are set to strengthen ties between the two nations. This is the first ever bilateral trip by an Indian PM to the southeast Asian nation.

PM Modi on Brunei visit: Defence, trade, investments areas of focus

Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Singapore on Wednesday after concluding his visit to Brunei. PM Modi is in Singapore for a two-day visit aimed at boosting India-Singapore friendship, deepening ‘strategic partnership’ and attracting investment from the Southeast Asian country.

PM Modi in Singapore: Indian PM Modi shows off his 'dhol' skills

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Singapore on Wednesday (Sept 4) for a significant bilateral visit to up New Delhi's chips in the extended neighbourhood. PM Modi landed in Singapore after visiting Brunei, the maiden visit by an Indian prime minister in 40 years since the diplomatic ties between the two countries were established.</p>

<h2><strong>Modi's agenda in Singapore</strong></h2>

<p>PM Modi will participate in a round table with Singaporean business leaders. He will also interact with Singapore’s semiconductor ecosystem players during the trip.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this week, the Singapore High Commission officials visited four locations in Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, where the Modi government has recently announced the setting up of new industrial parks.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modis-historic-brunei-visit-marks-40-years-of-bilateral-relations-between-two-nations-755691">Indian PM Modi's 'historic' Brunei visit marks 40 years of bilateral relations between two nations</a></strong></p>

<p>On Wednesday, Singapore’s Capital Land announced it will double its funds under management in India to more than ₹90,280 crore by 2028. The Singapore High Commission said it was "good to see companies doubling down on Investments in India".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Landed in Singapore. Looking forward to the various meetings aimed at boosting the India-Singapore friendship. India’s reforms and the talent of our Yuva Shakti makes our nation an ideal investment destination. We also look forward to closer cultural ties. <a href="https://t.co/SG2IttCKEg">pic.twitter.com/SG2IttCKEg</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1831250071490355601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 4, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>During Modi's years in power, the India-Singapore ties have been elevated to a Strategic Partnership.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The current visit elevates the bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Simultaneously, India is also looking to build synergies in semiconductor sector and skilling with these ecosystems in Singapore.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Prime Minister Narendra Modi tries his hands on a 'dhol' as members of the Indian diaspora welcome him on his arrival in Singapore <a href="https://t.co/PMzJNlAtJK">pic.twitter.com/PMzJNlAtJK</a></p>
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<p>Both prime ministers will be briefed on the semiconductor ecosystem in Singapore and exchange views on the upcoming semiconductor ecosystem in India, sources said. MoUs will be signed, and cooperation will happen in manpower skilling in the semiconductor sector.</p>

<p>Singapore and India will also increase cooperation in skilling. From skilling centres to training and recruitment by Singapore firms, this will help India’s youth with better skills and opportunities.</p>

<p>Notably, the Indian PM will meet all three generations of leadership in Singapore. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong will host PM Modi for a meal. The prime minister will meet Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam. Former PM and Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong will also host PM Modi for a meal. Modi will also meet former PM and Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Singapore on Wednesday (Sept 4) for a significant bilateral visit to up New Delhi's chips in the extended neighbourhood. PM Modi landed in Singapore after visiting Brunei, the maiden visit by an Indian prime minister in 40 years since the diplomatic ties between the two countries were established.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Singapore on Wednesday (Sept 4) for a significant bilateral visit to up New Delhi's chips in the extended neighbourhood. PM Modi landed in Singapore after visiting Brunei, the maiden visit by an Indian prime minister in 40 years since the diplomatic ties between the two countries were established. Modi's agenda in Singapore PM Modi will participate in a round table with Singaporean business leaders. He will also interact with Singapore’s semiconductor ecosystem players during the trip. Earlier this week, the Singapore High Commission officials visited four locations in Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, where the Modi government has recently announced the setting up of new industrial parks. Also read | Indian PM Modi's 'historic' Brunei visit marks 40 years of bilateral relations between two nations On Wednesday, Singapore’s Capital Land announced it will double its funds under management in India to more than ₹90,280 crore by 2028. The Singapore High Commission said it was "good to see companies doubling down on Investments in India". Landed in Singapore. Looking forward to the various meetings aimed at boosting the India-Singapore friendship. India’s reforms and the talent of our Yuva Shakti makes our nation an ideal investment destination. We also look forward to closer cultural ties. pic.twitter.com/SG2IttCKEg — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 4, 2024 × During Modi's years in power, the India-Singapore ties have been elevated to a Strategic Partnership. The current visit elevates the bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, reports said. Simultaneously, India is also looking to build synergies in semiconductor sector and skilling with these ecosystems in Singapore. Prime Minister Narendra Modi tries his hands on a 'dhol' as members of the Indian diaspora welcome him on his arrival in Singapore pic.twitter.com/PMzJNlAtJK — WION (@WIONews) September 4, 2024 × Both prime ministers will be briefed on the semiconductor ecosystem in Singapore and exchange views on the upcoming semiconductor ecosystem in India, sources said. MoUs will be signed, and cooperation will happen in manpower skilling in the semiconductor sector. Singapore and India will also increase cooperation in skilling. From skilling centres to training and recruitment by Singapore firms, this will help India’s youth with better skills and opportunities. Notably, the Indian PM will meet all three generations of leadership in Singapore. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong will host PM Modi for a meal. The prime minister will meet Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam. Former PM and Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong will also host PM Modi for a meal. Modi will also meet former PM and Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi lands in Singapore as India aims to up its chips in critical technologies

Indian PM Modi will become the first Indian leader to embark on a bilateral visit to Brunei on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of India-Brunei ties. He will follow up with a visit to Singapore on September 4 to deepen trade and defence relations.

Indian PM Modi to embark on visit to Brunei, Singapore

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Sept 3) left for a three-day visit to Brunei and Singapore with a focus on boosting bilateral ties and enhancing India's capacities in critical technologies, including semiconductors. Later in the day, he landed in Brunei's&nbsp;Darussalam.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is the first-ever bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei. PM Modi will remain in Brunei on September 3-4, and then travel to Singapore.</p>

<p>While departing from New Delhi, PM Modi said he was looking forward to his scheduled engagements with Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and other key members of the Royal family.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"As we celebrate 40 years of diplomatic ties, I am eager to advance our historical relationship with Brunei to new heights," PM Modi said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-edges-past-the-uk-in-critical-technologies-research-iit-bombay-roorkee-top-performers-754115">India edges past the UK in critical technologies research; IIT Bombay, Roorkee top performers</a></strong></p>

<p>After Brunei, the Indian prime minister will be in Singapore on September 4 and 5. The prime minister is scheduled to hold meetings with President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-neighbourhood-first-sagar-outlook-foreign-policy-frameworks-at-centre-of-modi-30-inauguration-730111">What is Neighbourhood First, SAGAR outlook? Foreign policy frameworks at centre of Modi 3.0 inauguration</a></strong></p>

<p>PM Modi will also interact with Singapore's "vibrant" business community.</p>

<h2><strong>Singapore visit: Semiconductor deal could be crucial breakthrough</strong></h2>

<p>WION has exclusively reported that India and Singapore will sign a pact on semiconductors during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Other than semiconductors, MoUs that are expected to be signed include Skilling, Health/Medicine, and Digital Collaboration.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-singapore-to-sign-pact-on-semiconductors-during-pm-modis-visit-755029">India, Singapore to sign pact on semiconductors during PM Modi's visit</a></strong></p>

<p>Singapore has been invited by the Indian government to invest in 12 industrial parks announced last week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;The India Story | India's big push to become a semiconductor hub</strong></p>

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<p>The Lion City, known for being the financial centre of the world, could send a team to India to look at the projects and invest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Singapore is India’s top foreign investor and has accounted for about 23 per cent of India’s FDI equity inflows since 2000.&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Sept 3) left for a three-day visit to Brunei and Singapore with a focus on boosting bilateral ties and enhancing India's capacities in critical technologies, including semiconductors.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday (Sept 3) left for a three-day visit to Brunei and Singapore with a focus on boosting bilateral ties and enhancing India's capacities in critical technologies, including semiconductors. Later in the day, he landed in Brunei's Darussalam. This is the first-ever bilateral visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Brunei. PM Modi will remain in Brunei on September 3-4, and then travel to Singapore. While departing from New Delhi, PM Modi said he was looking forward to his scheduled engagements with Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and other key members of the Royal family. "As we celebrate 40 years of diplomatic ties, I am eager to advance our historical relationship with Brunei to new heights," PM Modi said. Also read | India edges past the UK in critical technologies research; IIT Bombay, Roorkee top performers After Brunei, the Indian prime minister will be in Singapore on September 4 and 5. The prime minister is scheduled to hold meetings with President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong. Also read | What is Neighbourhood First, SAGAR outlook? Foreign policy frameworks at centre of Modi 3.0 inauguration PM Modi will also interact with Singapore's "vibrant" business community. Singapore visit: Semiconductor deal could be crucial breakthrough WION has exclusively reported that India and Singapore will sign a pact on semiconductors during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit. Other than semiconductors, MoUs that are expected to be signed include Skilling, Health/Medicine, and Digital Collaboration. Also read | India, Singapore to sign pact on semiconductors during PM Modi's visit Singapore has been invited by the Indian government to invest in 12 industrial parks announced last week. Also watch | The India Story | India's big push to become a semiconductor hub × The Lion City, known for being the financial centre of the world, could send a team to India to look at the projects and invest. Singapore is India’s top foreign investor and has accounted for about 23 per cent of India’s FDI equity inflows since 2000.

PM Modi lands in Brunei before Singapore as India aims to up its 'chips' in extended neighbourhood

<p>Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Singapore later this month, former Singaporean diplomat and acclaimed academic Kishore Mahbubani has called for urgent reforms in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), asserting that New Delhi deserves a permanent seat on the council.</p>

<p>In an interview with NDTV, Mahbubani argued that the United Kingdom should relinquish its permanent seat at the UNSC to India.</p>

<p>"India is undeniably the third-most powerful country in the world today, after the United States and China. Meanwhile, Great Britain is no longer 'great'," he remarked.</p>

<p>India in the past has&nbsp;referred to the privileged status of the Permanent-five member states as "a continuation of the mindset of the post 1945 era: to the victors belong the spoils", a reference to the way the permanent membership was established at the UN Security Council by the allied powers of second World War who emerged victorious in 1945.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-chinas-smokescreen-tricks-the-world-against-reforms-at-un-security-council-635950">How China’s ‘smokescreen’ tricks the world against reforms at UN Security Council</a></strong></p>

<p>Mahbubani explained that the UK has not exercised its veto power at the UNSC for decades, largely due to fear of backlash. "The logical step for the UK is to cede its seat to India,&nbsp;he said.</p>

<p>Commenting on the broader need for UN reforms, Mahbubani said that the founders of the UN designed the organisation to include the major powers of their time, ensuring these nations had vested interests in maintaining its effectiveness.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;UN recognises need for reform within security council; UN facing a crisis of credibility, says India</strong></p>

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<p>"The founders of the UN learned from the early 20th-century collapse of the League of Nations that if a great power leaves, the organisation falls apart,” he said. "However, they also believed that the UNSC should represent the great powers of today, not those of the past. Unfortunately, they did not create a mechanism to update the council’s membership."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-edges-past-the-uk-in-critical-technologies-research-iit-bombay-roorkee-top-performers-754115">India edges past the UK in critical technologies research; IIT Bombay, Roorkee top performers</a></strong></p>

<p>Mahbubani added that if the UK were to give up its seat, it would also gain the freedom to act more independently on the global stage.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Singapore later this month, former Singaporean diplomat and acclaimed academic Kishore Mahbubani has called for urgent reforms in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), asserting that New Delhi deserves a permanent seat on the council.

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Singapore later this month, former Singaporean diplomat and acclaimed academic Kishore Mahbubani has called for urgent reforms in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), asserting that New Delhi deserves a permanent seat on the council. In an interview with NDTV, Mahbubani argued that the United Kingdom should relinquish its permanent seat at the UNSC to India. "India is undeniably the third-most powerful country in the world today, after the United States and China. Meanwhile, Great Britain is no longer 'great'," he remarked. India in the past has referred to the privileged status of the Permanent-five member states as "a continuation of the mindset of the post 1945 era: to the victors belong the spoils", a reference to the way the permanent membership was established at the UN Security Council by the allied powers of second World War who emerged victorious in 1945. Also read | How China’s ‘smokescreen’ tricks the world against reforms at UN Security Council Mahbubani explained that the UK has not exercised its veto power at the UNSC for decades, largely due to fear of backlash. "The logical step for the UK is to cede its seat to India, he said. Commenting on the broader need for UN reforms, Mahbubani said that the founders of the UN designed the organisation to include the major powers of their time, ensuring these nations had vested interests in maintaining its effectiveness. Also watch | UN recognises need for reform within security council; UN facing a crisis of credibility, says India × "The founders of the UN learned from the early 20th-century collapse of the League of Nations that if a great power leaves, the organisation falls apart,” he said. "However, they also believed that the UNSC should represent the great powers of today, not those of the past. Unfortunately, they did not create a mechanism to update the council’s membership." Also read | India edges past the UK in critical technologies research; IIT Bombay, Roorkee top performers Mahbubani added that if the UK were to give up its seat, it would also gain the freedom to act more independently on the global stage. (With inputs from agencies)

UK must give up its permanent UN Security Council seat to India: Ex-Singaporean diplomat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Brunei and Singapore in the first week of September, the Ministry of External Affairs said on Friday (August 30, 2024).

Indian PM Modi's bilateral visit to Brunei and Singapore in the first week of September

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