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Read the following passage carefully and answer questions. 
Singapore has long advocated for India to take up its role as an integral part of the region. It is gratifying to see how ASEAN – India relations have grown during the past 25 years. In 1991, when the Cold War ended and India began its economic liberalization, Singapore saw on opportunity to deepen ties and build on its historical and cultural links with the Asian region. Singapore pushed for India to become a full ASEAN dialogue partner in 1995 and join the EAS in 1995 and since then, ASEAN – India ties have strengthened. All in all, around 30 platforms for co-operation exist, including seven ministerial dialogues and the Annual Leader Summit. However, there is scope for more and it is a must. For instance, there are tremendous opportunities in enhancing physical and digital connectivity between India and ASEAN. ASEAN is committed to strengthening land, air and sea linkages with India. These linkages will enhance people-to-people flows, as well as boost business, investment and tourism. The India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway will connect India’s Northeast to mainland Southeast Asia. While one can fly directly between India and several ASEAN countries, there is still much room to expand air links to support growing business and tourism. Beyond physical linkages, digital connectivity is the new frontier in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. India has made great progress in innovation, Start-ups and digital inclusion. There are opportunities to apply initiatives such as Aadhaar in our region. E-commerce and FinTech are two other areas of potential collaboration. As an economic hub, Singapore can serve as a springboard to lunch these ideas to Southeast Asia and beyond. India’s role in ASEAN should be anchored by growing economic ties with Singapore. The economic integration involving 16 countries with one-third of global GDP and trade will create an integrated Asian market.

What prompted Singapore to opt for stronger ties with India?

[UGC NET 22 December 2018 (Paper - I)]
A
B
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D