Singapore President Tony Tan Keng Yam holds wide-ranging talks with Narendra Modi

NEW DELHI: President of Singapore Tony Tan Keng Yam today met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and both the leaders held wide-ranging discussions on enhancing bilateral relations in diverse areas as well as broadening cooperation in fighting terrorism among other issues.

In their talks, the two leaders deliberated on strengthening of cooperation on regional and international issues to raise the partnership to a "higher level".

The discussions between Tan and Modi covered range of issues including specific initiatives to develop smart cities and urban rejuvenation, promote skill development, measures to speed up connectivity and coastal and port development, strengthening linkages with the northeast and projects to scale up investments in the new development initiatives launched in India.

"They agreed on sharing of experiences in science and technology, space and other areas to enhance productivity and efficiency as well as broadening cooperation in fighting terrorism.

"The discussions reflected the spirit of mutual trust, understanding and cooperation that characterise the unique and special relations between the two countries," the External Affairs Ministry said in a release.

Tan arrived here yesterday on a four-day visit at the invitation of President Pranab Mukherjee. His delegation included a number of Ministers and senior officials.

His visit highlights the celebrations on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Singapore.

The relationship between the two countries encompasses strong political understanding, close defence and security cooperation and growing complementaries in economic engagement.

Tan met External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj also. He will inaugurate the 'Singapore Festival in India' tomorrow, launch a commemorative book titled "Singapore and India: Towards A Shared Future", open the Peranakan Exhibition at National Museum and host a Food Festival themed "Flavours Of Singapore".