<span style="color: #222222;">The 16th Foreign Office Consultations between India and Singapore were held in Singapore yesterday, August 19. The Consultations were co-chaired by Secretary (East) in the Ministry of External Affairs, Saurabh Kumar.<br />''<br />''The two sides reviewed the entire gamut of bilateral relations and expressed satisfaction at the present level of engagement. Both sides emphasized the importance of bilateral political exchanges to realise the full potential of the partnership.<br />''<br />''The delegations also discussed enhancing cooperation in a number of areas, including, trade and investment, startups and innovation, fintech, smart cities, infrastructure, skill development, and connectivity.<br />''<br />''Defence cooperation between both countries was also reviewed. The two sides noted the increase in tourist arrivals from India in recent months and the need to further facilitate travel.<br />''<br />''Given that Singapore is the current country coordinator for India in ASEAN, the two sides exchanged views on India-ASEAN engagements and raising the relationship to a higher level. Views were also exchanged on regional and international issues of mutual interest.<br />''<br />''The two sides reiterated their firm commitment to work towards further strengthening of India-Singapore multi-faceted relations and deepening the strategic partnership.</span><br />