The Singapore Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI) has expressed optimism about the future of Singapore-India relations under the leadership of Lawrence Wong, who is set to become the country's new Prime Minister on May 15. SICCI Chairman Neil Parekh highlighted Wong's role in co-chairing the India-Singapore Ministerial Roundtable, which is seen as a foundation for the long-term relationship between the two countries. During the centennial celebration gala dinner, attended by Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and various business and community leaders, SICCI emphasized its significant partnership with the Singapore government in enhancing ties with India.
One of the key contributions of SICCI to Singapore-India relations has been its involvement in shaping the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) before its signing in June 2005. Parekh emphasized that SICCI's mission includes facilitating connections between Singapore businesses, trade associations, and Indian counterparts, especially during a period of increased interest in India's economic potential. Over the years, SICCI has organized multiple business missions across different regions in India and has collaborated closely with prominent Indian business associations like the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII), the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), and the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) to strengthen economic partnerships.
Additionally, SICCI has actively participated in investment roadshows for Indian state governments, such as Tamil Nadu and Gujarat, ahead of their Global Investment Summits. By engaging in these initiatives, SICCI aims to foster greater investment and trade cooperation between Singapore and India, building on the foundation established during previous collaborations and agreements.