JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto on Tuesday to enhance strategic relations between the two largest democracies in Asia amidst challenges in global economic globalization.
The discussions between Modi and Prabowo revolved around several crucial pillars aimed at strengthening bilateral ties. These included defense and security, trade and investment, food and energy security, critical minerals, and capacity building in health and education sectors. The visit is also expected to culminate in the announcement of eight agreements and multiple memorandums of understanding, as stated by Indonesia's Foreign Minister Sugiono prior to the meeting.
This visit marks Modi's second trip to Indonesia as Prime Minister, following his previous engagement in 2018. The current meeting follows Prabowo's role as the chief guest at India's Republic Day celebrations last year, reflecting the growing diplomatic ties since then. Modi arrived in Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, on Monday afternoon for a three-day engagement in the region, which is part of a broader trip to Indo-Pacific nations including Australia and New Zealand.
During his arrival, Modi was warmly welcomed, with his flight escorted into Indonesian airspace by three fighter jets. He was greeted on the tarmac by President Prabowo at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base, highlighting the significance Indonesia places on its relations with India.
As both nations are members of the Group of 20 and BRICS, the leaders emphasized the importance of closer cooperation across various domains. Indian Ambassador to Indonesia, Sandeep Chakravorty, noted that Modi is also scheduled to address members of Indonesia's Parliament on Tuesday, followed by an event in the evening with the Indian community residing in Indonesia. Chakravorty asserted that this visit exemplifies the burgeoning cooperation between two influential democracies in Asia.
Amid recent geopolitical shifts, Chakravorty stressed that closer ties between these leaders from the Global South are vital. He indicated that discussions on defense cooperation would be a focal point, with Indonesia showing interest in acquiring India’s BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system. Reports suggest that negotiations in this regard are at an advanced stage. Beyond military procurement, the two countries are expected to explore broader maritime security collaborations, since India and Indonesia share strategic interests in critical shipping routes linking the Indian and Pacific oceans.
Modi's visit is also anticipated to highlight the launch of the Indonesia Open Network, a digital commerce platform modeled on India's digital public infrastructure, which could enhance economic ties. Sugiono mentioned that Modi is expected to travel to the ancient city of Yogyakarta on Wednesday. During this visit, he may announce the commencement of an Indian-supported restoration project at the Prambanan Temple, a significant cultural heritage site in Indonesia, following an agreement made during Prabowo's visit to India.
On the same day, Modi is set to travel to Australia to meet with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, further underscoring the importance of these diplomatic engagements in the broader Indo-Pacific context.
