SINGAPORE: The Singapore-India Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) does not automatically grant Indian nationals access to Singapore citizenship, permanent residence or employment here, the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) said　on Thursday (Aug 27).

"It is not true that under CECA, Indian nationals can come to Singapore and become permanent residents and citizens. There is no such provision in CECA," said an MTI spokesperson.

"It is also not true that CECA requires Singapore to automatically grant Employment Passes to PMEs from India wanting to work here," said the spokesperson, referring to　professionals, managers and executives (PMEs).

The spokesperson's remarks were issued in a statement responding to media queries on whether CECA gives Indian nationals "automatic access" to citizenship, permanent residence and employment in Singapore.

CECA entered into force in 2005. According to information on the Government of Singapore website, the agreement provides for　expanded tariff concessions and improved rules of origin which give Singapore businesses greater access to India’s market, and allows for the movement of four types of business people between Singapore and India.