Singapore's PM congratulates Indian counterpart on re-election win | #AsiaNewsNetwork

Singapore's PM congratulates Indian counterpart on re-election win | #AsiaNewsNetwork
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi waves to his supporters during a road show in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India, on April 25, 2019.PHOTO: EPA-EFE
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi waves to his supporters during a road show in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India, on April 25, 2019.PHOTO: EPA-EFE
Published 24 May 2019

SINGAPORE (The Straits Times) - Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has congratulated India's Narendra Modi on his re-election after a landslide election result, according to a Ministry of Foreign Affairs press statement issued on Thursday.

"The strong mandate reflects the results of your first term and the consequent trust that the people of India repose in your leadership. That the elections were conducted peacefully and smoothly despite the huge logistical challenges is also remarkable," Mr Lee wrote.

Mr Lee wrote that Singapore appreciates the personal focus that Mr Modi has placed on developing the bilateral relationship, noting that the Indian Premier's steadfast support has helped to catalyse more extensive cooperation across many areas.

He noted that the elevation of relations to a Strategic Partnership in 2015 boosted cooperation in defence, culture, and the people-to-people sector.

"Our relations are already very substantial, but we should do more to exploit our complementarities, tap the reservoir of goodwill between the two countries and peoples, and fully realise the potential for enhanced cooperation including in the fintech and digital space," wrote the Singapore Prime Minister.

Mr Lee said that Singapore also welcomes India's deepening engagement with the region, in line with Mr Modi's Act East policy and following up on the commemoration of the 25th anniversary of Asean-India relations in 2018.

"I know you share my conviction that India and Asean can do much more together, to bring mutual benefit and prosperity to our peoples," wrote Mr Lee.

"I look forward to working with you to build on the progress we have made. I know you have many domestic priorities, but when your schedule permits, I welcome you to visit Singapore again," he wrote, signing off his letter by wishing Mr Modi good health and success in his new term.

Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong has also extended warmest congratulations to Mr Modi on his election victory in a letter.

"This was a hard fought re-election campaign where your charismatic and decisive leadership made a clear difference. The BJP has once again received a resounding mandate from the people of India," wrote ESM Goh, adding that it reflected voters' trust and confidence in Mr Modi and his team to lead the country.

Mr Goh noted that Singapore-India relations remain excellent. "Given the uncertain and challenging geo-political environment and international economy, we look forward to advancing the cooperation between our two countries, especially in new areas such as Fintech and innovation," he wrote.

"I wish you the very best for your second term. May you enjoy continued good health," wrote ESM Goh.
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/prime-minister-lee-hsien-loong-co...