By NNN-PTI
Singapore : India and Singapore Tuesday decided to set up a Joint Ministerial Committee to give further impetus to the rapidly developing bilateral ties, specially in the areas of trade and economy.
After talks between Indian External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee and his Singaporean counterpart George Yeo here, the two sides also announced setting up of a Nalanda University Mentor Group to work out the modalities to restore the ancient seat of learning in Bihar.
The two leaders held extensive discussions on bilateral and international issues of mutual interest during their talks.
The Joint Ministerial Committee will monitor the progress of cooperation between the two countries in various fields and look into the maturity, depth and range of the rapidly developing bilateral ties, Mukherjee told a joint press conference with his Singaporean counterpart.
Describing the agreement as a “landmark” treaty, Yeo noted that it was the first time the two countries had set up a regular forum at ministerial level to discuss and look into the growing bilateral cooperation.
The Indian minister expressed appreciation for measures taken by Singapore towards creating the International University at Nalanda on Buddhist religion.
He said the two countries have decided to set up a “Nalanda Mentor Group” and that Yeo would be a part of the group to guide the project.
Mukherjee also noted that defence cooperation was proceeding well between the two countries with joint exercises taking place.