Singapore Becomes 1st Partner Country for ‘Make in Odisha Conclave 2025’
Bhubaneswar: Singapore is set to be the first partner country for the upcoming ‘Utkarsh Odisha – Make in Odisha Conclave 2025’, scheduled for January 28-29. The announcement came during a meeting between Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Simon Wong, the High Commissioner of Singapore to India, at Lok Seva Bhawan.
Simon Wong revealed that Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam would visit Odisha during his India tour in January. Notably, Odisha is the only state on the President’s itinerary, as he perceives immense potential for strengthening business ties alongside the state’s cultural significance. Wong emphasised that the visit will focus on opportunities in petrochemicals, green energy, and skill development.
Chief Minister Majhi welcomed the High Commissioner and expressed gratitude to the Singapore government for accepting the invitation. He highlighted Odisha’s potential for collaboration with Singapore in sectors such as petrochemicals, renewable energy, urban planning, tourism, and skill development. Majhi also recalled the success of his recent visit to Singapore with Team Odisha, which has laid the groundwork for enhanced cooperation.
As India and Singapore mark 60 years of diplomatic relations, the President’s visit aims to commemorate this milestone and further bilateral ties. Singapore is among the largest sources of FDI in India, while Indian companies maintain a robust presence in Singapore, especially in IT, banking, and manufacturing. The relationship between the two nations spans trade, defence, technology, and cultural exchanges, with a shared commitment to democracy, innovation, and sustainability.
Key officials from Odisha, including Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja, Additional Chief Secretary Nikunja Bihari Dhal and other senior officers, attended the meeting. Alice Cheng, Deputy High Commissioner of Singapore in New Delhi, was also present.