Guwahati: The Assam Industrial Development Corporation (AIDC) and Singapore-headquartered firm Surbana Jurong, in presence of Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma and the South-East Asian city nation’s Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam, signed a “Letter of Intent” here today.
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Dr. Sarma stated that the signing of the “letter of intent” would add a new strength to the “organic relationship” between Assam and Singapore.
Dr. Sarma, stressing the need for a master plan to transform Guwahati into a world-class city, added the expertise of Surbana Jurong in the field of urban infrastructure development would be of immense help towards meeting that aim.
Dr. Sarma further spoke about the prospect that Assam would provide to industries across the world in relation to the center stage it holds in the Act East Policy. He asked representatives of Surbana Jurong to make the best use of the opportunities the infrastructure and allied sectors in Assam offer.
Dr. Sarma also stressed the need for critical infrastructure such as cold storage, supply-chain infrastructure, and modern modes of transportation, among others. Due to a lack of infrastructure such as cold storage, etc., many of Assam’s products are not able to reach markets where they would be bought at attractive rates. As a result, a portion of the products is sold at distressed prices. "Focusing on such infrastructure would be of immense help to farmers of the state,” the Chief Minister added.
Singapore Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam lauded the role of the Chief Minister for the steps that have been taken for the overall development of Assam. The Singapore minister expressed hope that in days to come, the relationship between his country and Assam would reach new heights. “Now that we have crossed the worst phase of COVID-19 spread, and the world resumes on the path to recovery, Assam must utilise its full potential in the field of economic growth,” Shanmugaratnam stated, adding: “I am certain we (Singapore and Assam) would be very good partners when it comes to cooperation in each other’s field of expertise.”
High Commissioner of Singapore to India Simon Wong Wie Kuen, Assam Industries, and Commerce Minister Bimal Bora were also present during the ceremonial signing of the letter of intent.
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