Our Bureau
Bhubaneswar
Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam is scheduled to visit Odisha during his official tour of India in January 2025. This visit is poised to enhance the bilateral relations between Singapore and India, particularly as both nations commemorate 60 years of diplomatic ties. The announcement was made by Simon Wong, the Singapore High Commissioner to India, during a recent meeting with Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
The decision to include Odisha in President Shanmugaratnam’s itinerary is particularly noteworthy, as it highlights the state’s growing importance as a hub for business and investment. Odisha has been making strides in various sectors, and the presence of the Singaporean President is expected to further spotlight these advancements on an international platform.
One of the key highlights of this visit is Singapore’s role as the inaugural country partner for the Utkarsh Odisha-Make in Odisha Conclave 2025, which is set to take place on January 28-29. This biennial event aims to attract global investors and promote the state’s potential in manufacturing and innovation.
High Commissioner Wong noted that Odisha possesses significant strengths in areas such as petrochemicals, green energy, and skill development. The partnership could lead to joint ventures and initiatives that leverage Singapore’s advanced technology and management practices alongside Odisha’s resource capabilities.
Beyond economic collaboration, President Shanmugaratnam’s visit is expected to foster deeper cultural ties between Singapore and Odisha. The two regions share a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, and this engagement could pave the way for increased people-to-people connections. Chief Minister Majhi expressed optimism about the potential outcomes of this visit. He highlighted that enhancing ties with Singapore could lead to significant advancements in urban planning, infrastructure development, and tourism in Odisha.
