India and Singapore will make special friends because their’s would be an alliance of two nations that respect each other and deeply value what the other has to offer to them. The existence of political will, complimentary comparative advantages and appreciation for each other’s national interests enable a sustainable relationship between the two countries. The CECA has converted cooperation possibilities in many areas into a reality. Singapore is keen on facilitating a closer relationship between ASEAN and India. Thus, an alliance with Singapore can be treated as a huge step towards building a stronger economic and political presence in ASEAN nations for India.
GIF has a vital role to play in this process through Track II diplomacy. The Foundation must utilize the opportunity of establishing its presence and actively participating in the processes occurring at both ends. This would allow GIF to address the concerns of stakeholders from all the three sides – India, Singapore and ASEAN nations as well as enable it to treat perception gaps and to bring mutual benefits to everyone’s recognition. Collaborating with other NGOs in the region would help GIF to promote a relationship of trust and confidence with strong economic and political benefits as the basis for a close and durable friendship between India and Singapore.