Singapore, September 4 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Singapore on Wednesday and was given a rousing welcome by members of the Indian community.

Prime Minister Modi said he was looking forward to various meetings aimed at strengthening India-Singapore friendship and closer cultural ties.

Taking to social media platform X, PM Modi said, “I have landed in Singapore. I am looking forward to the various meetings to strengthen the friendship between India and Singapore. India’s reforms and the talent of our Yuva Shakti make our nation an ideal investment destination. We also hope to strengthen our cultural ties.” Upon his arrival at the airport, the Prime Minister received a warm welcome from the Indian community. PM Modi was seen signing autographs for members of the community.

He also received a warm welcome upon arrival at the hotel. A woman tied a ‘rakhi’ to Prime Minister Modi.

The Indian diaspora expressed excitement at the prime minister’s arrival, calling it a “dream come true”. Some said they woke up at 5 am to catch a glimpse of Prime Minister Modi.

Ankit, a student at the National University of Singapore, told ANI, “We all woke up today at 5 am with great enthusiasm and made this banner for Prime Minister Modi. Because of him, India’s image has improved tremendously.” Another Indian national said, “I have been waiting for this moment for 10 years. Finally, I got to meet him so closely, it was a dream come true for me.” The occasion was particularly memorable for Sachin Ganjarpurkar who represented Maharashtra Mandal, the group that organised a cultural performance for Prime Minister Modi upon his arrival.

“Prime Minister Modi himself has been beating this drum…we will remove it,” he said.

“Modiji also welcomed us for Ganesh Chaturthi, and there is an atmosphere of excitement,” he added.

During his visit to the city-state, Prime Minister Modi will call on Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and meet Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Senior Minister Emeritus Goh Chok Tong.

A number of memoranda of understanding are expected to be signed during his visit. The President will also meet with leaders of Singapore’s vibrant business community.

“I will also engage in discussions to deepen India’s strategic partnership with Singapore, particularly in the new and emerging areas of advanced manufacturing, digitalisation and sustainable development,” Prime Minister Modi said before leaving for the visit to the two countries.

It is noteworthy that this visit comes just days after a ministerial round table meeting between India and Singapore was held, which was attended by four Union ministers and six Singapore ministers.

Several areas including digitalisation, skill development, sustainability, healthcare, advanced manufacturing and connectivity were identified during the India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable held on August 26. (ANI)