PM Modi And Indonesian President Strengthen Strategic Ties In Key Sectors

On January 25, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a crucial meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and Indonesia, focusing on critical areas such as defence, security, maritime cooperation, economic ties, and people-to-people connections, as reported by ANi.

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PM Modi And Indonesian President Meet: A Focus on Key Sectors

During the discussions, both leaders emphasized the importance of enhancing bilateral cooperation in various sectors. PM Modi expressed India's strong partnership with Indonesia, recognizing it as a key ally in ASEAN and the Indo-Pacific. The two nations agreed to work together to promote peace, security, and a rule-based order in the region, particularly with a shared focus on freedom of navigation in accordance with international law.

Shared History and Strong Bonds

President Prabowo Subianto, who is on his first state visit to India since assuming office in October 2024, reflected on the historical ties between the two countries. He highlighted the strong support India extended to Indonesia during its struggle for independence, including financial, medical aid, and diplomatic support from Indian leaders. Subianto noted that Indonesia felt honored to have been invited as the Chief Guest for India's 76th Republic Day celebrations, adding that this was a special occasion as Indonesia was the first Chief Guest at India's first Republic Day parade in 1950.

In his statement, President Subianto also emphasized the long-standing friendship between the two nations, underscoring the significance of their strategic partnership in the context of both countries' future aspirations.

Strengthening Defence and Maritime Security

A key part of the discussions was dedicated to defence cooperation, with both leaders agreeing to collaborate in areas like defence manufacturing and the supply chain. They also outlined plans for deeper engagement in maritime security, cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and de-radicalization efforts. An agreement on maritime safety and security was signed, focusing on crime prevention, search and rescue operations, and capacity building.

PM Modi reflected on his 2018 visit to Indonesia, where the two nations had launched their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He reiterated that the partnership had significantly advanced since then, and the recent talks with President Subianto would further strengthen the cooperation between India and Indonesia in various domains.

Cultural and Diplomatic Engagements

Earlier in the day, President Subianto paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, laying a wreath and signing the visitors' book, accompanied by Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita. This gesture highlighted the deep respect and admiration both nations share for each other's cultures and leaders.

At Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Subianto was given a ceremonial welcome, marking the significance of his visit as a milestone in Indo-Indonesian relations. The meeting between PM Modi and President Subianto was a reflection of the growing cooperation between the two countries, with both sides committed to fostering a long-term strategic partnership.

India - Indonesia Relations: The Way Forward

India and Indonesia share a rich history and continue to build on their strong ties. With a focus on defence, economic cooperation, and maritime security, the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries is set to flourish in the coming years. As both nations work together towards a peaceful and prosperous future in the Indo-Pacific, their commitment to mutual growth and security is stronger than ever.