Rise in the tide of terrorism greatest challenge today : PM Modi in joint statement with Singapore PM

"Rising tide of terrorism, especially cross-border terrorism, & the rise of radicalization are grave challenges to security," Modi said in a joint press statement with the visiting Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsei Loong,

"It is my firm belief that those who believe in peace & humanity need to stand and act together against this menace."

At the beginning of Press Statement both the leaders condemned terrorism and offered condolences to the families of those killed in the Uri terror attack.

Modi said a MOU on Intellectual Property has been signed between India and Singapore, which will facilitate greater business to business exchanges and collaborations.

"Prime Minister Lee and I have agreed to expedite the second review of our Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement," he said adding both of them  undertook "a detailed review of the shape and substance of our strategic partnership."

"In our path of strong growth and transformation, we regard Singapore as a key partner. We value your friendship & leadership...

Our partnership aims to combine the strengths of Singapore with the scale of India; & dynamism of Singapore with vibrancy of our States," he said.

Modi said the defence and security cooperation between India and Singapore "is a key pillar of our strategic partnership."

Commending the success of  Singapore, Modi said, " if there is one country that seems to act in the present, but is alive to the future, it is Singapore."

PM Modi and  Lee will hold bilateral discussions, following which agreements will be signed between the two sides.