Modi, Lee call all nations to stand against cross-border terror

The issue figured prominently during formal talks between the two leaders after which they also signed an MoU on intellectual property rights besides one to set up a Skill Development Centre for North Eastern States in Guwahati, and the other with the National Skill Development Council. “Rising tide of terrorism, especially cross-border terrorism, and the rise of radicalisation are grave challenges to our security. They threaten the very fabric of our societies. It is my firm belief that those who believe in peace and humanity need to stand and act together against this menace,'' Modi said in a media statement after the talks.

“Today, we have agreed to enhance our cooperation to counter these threats, including in the domain of cyber security," he said. The two countries have also agreed to expedite the second review of their Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement, the Prime Minister said. The MoU on Intellectual Property, which has been signed on Tuesday, will facilitate greater business-to-business exchanges and collaborations, he said.

Narendra Modi also welcomed the issuance of corporate rupee bonds in Singapore, describing it as "a step forward in our efforts to mobilise capital for India's large infrastructure development needs."      Describing defence and security cooperation was a key pillar of their strategic partnership, he said as two maritime nations, keeping the sea lanes of communication open, and respect for international legal order of seas and oceans was a shared priority. 

"Our cooperation in the framework of ASEAN, East Asia Summit and the ASEAN Regional Framework is aimed at building an open and inclusive architecture for regional cooperation, in an atmosphere of trust and confidence,'' the Prime Minister said.