NEW DELHI — On Saturday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a significant meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto during his visit to New Delhi. This meeting resulted in the signing of multiple agreements aimed at fostering collaboration in various sectors, including health, defense, digital technology, and maritime affairs. The two nations are committed to enhancing their diplomatic and strategic relations through these initiatives.
Subianto’s arrival in India marks his first official visit since he took office as president last year. He is set to be the distinguished guest at India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations on Sunday, which commemorate the adoption of the Indian Constitution on January 26, 1950. This historic event occurred nearly three years post India’s liberation from British colonial rule.
During their discussions, Modi emphasized the importance of joint efforts in defense production, manufacturing, and supply chain management. Both leaders expressed a desire to bolster collaboration in the areas of maritime and cyber security. Modi further highlighted that the agreements made regarding maritime safety and security would enhance cooperative efforts in crime prevention, search and rescue operations, and capacity development.
In expressing gratitude, Subianto acknowledged India’s crucial role in supporting Indonesia’s full membership in the BRICS group of emerging economies, which occurred earlier this year. He also mentioned having had a constructive and honest dialogue with Modi and expressed hope for accelerated economic collaboration and reduced bureaucratic hurdles between the two nations.
As reported by India’s diplomatic mission in Jakarta, Indonesia stands as India’s second-largest trade partner within the ASEAN region, with bilateral trade totaling around $29.4 billion for the year 2023-24.
On the same day of the meeting with Modi, Subianto also had a formal engagement with Indian President Draupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhawan, the official presidential residence, highlighting the significance of this diplomatic visit.
