PM Lee congratulates Modi on remarkable poll victory

Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong has congratulated his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi on his re-election and expressed the hope for enhanced cooperation between both the countries. He has also invited Modi to visit Singapore.

PM Modi led his Bharatiya Janata Party towards a remarkable victory for a second consecutive term in the office.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong share a close bonhomie. Photo courtesy: Twitter/@MEAIndia
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong share a close bonhomie. Photo courtesy: Twitter/@MEAIndia

In a letter to Modi, PM Lee said, “Congratulations on your re-election. 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,” he added.

PM Lee appreciated Modi’s personal focus in developing the bilateral relationship. He said, “Your steadfast support has helped to catalyse more extensive cooperation across many areas. 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,” he added.

PM Lee added that Singapore welcomes India’s deepening engagement with ASEAN and the region, in line with Modi’s Act East policy. 

"I know you share my conviction that India and ASEAN can do much more together, to bring mutual benefit and prosperity to our peoples," he said, adding that he looks forward to working to Modi on the progress made. 

PM Modi last visited Singapore in 2018 on a three-day official visit. Modi also gave his keynote speech at Shangri-La Dialogue.

Inviting Modi to visit Singapore once again, PM Lee, said, “I know you have many domestic priorities, but when your schedule permits, I welcome you to visit Singapore again.”