PM Modi Holds Bilateral Talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a bilateral meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in Jakarta on Tuesday as part of his official state visit to Indonesia. The high-level talks focused on expanding cooperation in defense, trade, maritime security, investment, and regional stability, reflecting the growing partnership between the two countries.
Prime Minister Modi was accompanied by National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri during the meeting. The discussions followed a grand ceremonial welcome in Jakarta, where President Prabowo personally greeted him upon arrival. The Prime Minister’s aircraft was escorted by Indonesian Air Force fighter jets as it entered Indonesian airspace, followed by a traditional cultural performance at the airport.
The visit, taking place from July 6 to July 8, marks Prime Minister Modi’s fourth trip to Indonesia and is the first bilateral visit since India and Indonesia elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2018. Both leaders intend to build on this partnership by enhancing collaboration in critical sectors essential for the future growth of both nations.
Defense and maritime cooperation were central to the discussions. In recent years, India and Indonesia have strengthened security ties through joint military exercises, regular high-level exchanges, and defense collaboration. Indonesia’s acquisition of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system has further deepened defense cooperation between the two countries.
Trade and critical minerals were also significant topics during the talks. Indonesia possesses approximately 21% of the world’s nickel reserves and is a major producer of bauxite, copper, and tin. These resources are vital for India’s clean energy transition, electric vehicle manufacturing, and long-term supply chain security.
Ahead of the visit, Prime Minister Modi stated that the tour would reinforce India’s Act East Policy and the MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across Regions) vision, which promotes security, stability, and sustainable growth across the Indo-Pacific region. During his stay, he is also scheduled to interact with the Indian diaspora and visit the UNESCO-listed Prambanan Temple Complex, symbolizing the centuries-old cultural ties between India and Indonesia.
Following the Indonesia visit, Prime Minister Modi will continue his three-nation diplomatic tour with visits to Australia and New Zealand, aiming to further strengthen India’s strategic and economic partnerships across the Indo-Pacific region.
