Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto held bilateral talks on Saturday at Hyderabad House, marking a significant step in strengthening the relationship between the two countries. During the meeting, several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged, covering various sectors including health cooperation, digital infrastructure, and defence collaboration.
PM Modi emphasized the importance of Indonesia as a key partner in the ASEAN and Indo-Pacific regions, reaffirming India’s commitment to ASEAN’s centrality and unity under its “Act East” policy. He highlighted that 2025 will be celebrated as the “India-ASEAN Year of Tourism,” which will promote cultural exchanges and tourism between India and Indonesia.
“Indonesia is an important partner for us in the ASEAN and Indo-Pacific regions. We both are committed to maintaining peace, security, prosperity, and the rule of law in this region. We agree that freedom of navigation should be ensured in accordance with international laws,” stated PM Modi during the meeting.
Further reflecting on the historical ties, PM Modi noted, “Indonesia was the chief guest at India’s first Republic Day. As we celebrate 75 years of the Republic, it is a matter of great pride that Indonesia is part of this historic occasion.”
The Prime Minister also underscored the growing bilateral trade, which surpassed $30 billion last year, and highlighted enhanced cooperation in emerging fields like Fintech, Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, and digital public infrastructure. Other areas of focus included maritime security, cyber security, counter-terrorism, and de-radicalization.
One of the significant agreements included maritime safety and security to strengthen crime prevention, search and rescue, and capacity building. The collaboration was also expanded in energy, critical minerals, science, technology, and space.
PM Modi also acknowledged the cultural and historical bonds between the two countries, citing the shared heritage in the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Bali Jatra, as well as India’s involvement in preserving Indonesia’s Prambanan Hindu Temple.
The Prime Minister welcomed Indonesia’s inclusion in BRICS and reiterated India’s commitment to work together on the priorities of Global South nations.
In his address, President Prabowo expressed gratitude towards India for its longstanding support. He reflected on the Indonesian Embassy in India, which is located on land donated by the Indian government. Prabowo also extended greetings to India on the occasion of the 76th Republic Day.
“Indonesia considers India a long-time friend. India was one of the first strong supporters of our independence struggle. Many Indian leaders supported us during critical times,” he stated.
Prabowo also thanked India for supporting Indonesia’s permanent membership in BRICS, and both leaders expressed their belief that this cooperation would benefit global stability and regional partnerships.
The talks concluded with both leaders reaffirming their shared commitment to peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, and strengthening the long-term strategic partnership between India and Indonesia.
