NEW DELHI (AP) — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in New Delhi on Saturday, marking a significant step in enhancing bilateral relations. During their meeting, the leaders signed multiple cooperation agreements that cover essential areas such as health, defense, digital technology, and maritime affairs. This collaboration is expected to deepen the ties between the two nations further.
President Subianto's visit to India is historic as it represents his first official trip since assuming office last year. Arriving late on Thursday, he is poised to be the chief guest at India's 76th Republic Day celebration on January 26, 2024. This event commemorates the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950, occurring nearly three years post-independence from British colonial rule.
In his remarks, Modi emphasized the intent to bolster cooperation in critical sectors such as defense production, manufacturing, and supply chains. The two nations are also focusing on strengthening maritime and cyber security cooperation. Modi asserted, “The agreement signed today in maritime safety and security will further enhance our collaboration in crime prevention, search and rescue, and capacity building.” These initiatives indicate a shared commitment to address common challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
President Subianto expressed gratitude towards India for its support concerning Indonesia’s recent elevation to a full member of the BRICS bloc of developing economies, a move made earlier this year. He noted that he and Modi engaged in "intensive and very frank discussions" during their meeting. The Indonesian president articulated a desire to expedite economic cooperation and reduce bureaucratic hurdles between the two countries.
Indonesia holds a prominent position in India’s trade landscape, being the country’s second-largest trading partner in the ASEAN region. According to reports from India's diplomatic mission in Jakarta, the bilateral trade volume is projected to reach USD 29.4 billion for the fiscal year 2023-2024. This significant figure illustrates the robust economic relations that have developed between India and Indonesia over the years.
Prior to their bilateral meeting, Subianto met with India’s President Draupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhawan, the presidential palace, alongside Modi. This gathering underscores the importance of high-level diplomatic engagement between the two nations and reflects a mutual commitment to fostering stronger ties.
The agreements signed during this visit are a testament to the growing partnership between India and Indonesia, focusing on collaborative efforts to address not just economic challenges but also critical issues of security in the region. The continued dialogue between the two leaders signifies a proactive approach towards enhancing strategic cooperation and fostering a stable, prosperous future for both countries.
