Prime Minister Narendra Modi has highlighted the “strong and vibrant” friendship between India and Indonesia after concluding a landmark state visit to Jakarta….reports Asian Lite News Desk
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday highlighted the “strong and vibrant” relationship between India and Indonesia as he shared key moments from his state visit to Jakarta, where the two countries significantly expanded cooperation across defence, trade, digital technology and education.
Sharing a video on social media, the Prime Minister showcased highlights of his visit, including his ceremonial welcome, the conferment of Indonesia’s highest civilian honour, his address to the Indonesian Parliament and his interaction with the Indian diaspora.
“The India-Indonesia friendship is strong and vibrant!” PM Modi posted, underlining the growing partnership between the two countries across strategic, economic and cultural sectors.
The visit marked a major step forward in bilateral ties, with India and Indonesia concluding 20 agreements and outcome documents aimed at strengthening cooperation in a wide range of sectors.
During talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, the two leaders discussed defence exports, maritime connectivity, critical minerals, digital public infrastructure and trade, reaffirming their commitment to expanding the strategic partnership.
In the defence sector, Indonesia agreed to expand its inventory of Indian-made BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles by acquiring additional missile batteries. The country also decided to procure India’s indigenous Astra Beyond-Visual-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (BVRAAM), which will be integrated into Indonesia’s Su-30 fighter aircraft by Bharat Dynamics Limited.
The two sides also finalised an agreement for the joint development of the strategically important Sabang Port, while enhancing cooperation in maritime connectivity.
In the digital domain, India and Indonesia announced the launch of ION, a digital commerce network based on the architecture of India’s Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). India will also assist Indonesia’s Election Commission in developing country-specific Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) for the country’s 2029 general elections.
The two countries further agreed to work towards integrating the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) to facilitate seamless cross-border digital payments and improve convenience for travellers and businesses.
To strengthen cooperation in critical mineral supply chains, both countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding covering steel, nickel and rare earth minerals. As part of the agreement, India will invest in manufacturing facilities in Indonesia for rare earth permanent magnets, a key component used in electric vehicles and advanced technologies.
During the visit, President Prabowo Subianto conferred Indonesia’s highest civilian honour, the ‘Bintang Adipurna of the Republic of Indonesia’ (Star of Adipurna), on Prime Minister Modi in recognition of his contribution to strengthening bilateral relations.
Prime Minister Modi also announced that the Indian Institute of Management Bengaluru (IIM Bengaluru) will establish a global campus in Indonesia, marking a significant milestone in educational cooperation between the two countries.
India also pledged technical assistance for the restoration and conservation of the historic Prambanan Temple, further reinforcing the shared civilisational and cultural ties between the two nations.
Speaking at a community event in Jakarta attended by members of the Indian diaspora, President Subianto described himself as a “great admirer” of Prime Minister Modi and praised India’s transformation under his leadership.
Recalling a personal experience, the Indonesian President said that before his state visit to India earlier this year, a DNA test had revealed Indian ancestry.
“Just before I made my State Visit to India (January 2025), I had what is called a genome sequencing test — I tested my DNA — and found out I had an Indian DNA. This is true, you know? And that’s why I think every time I hear some music, especially Indian music, I find my body moving,” he said, drawing applause from the audience.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Modi said India continues to pursue reforms while maintaining rapid economic growth despite global challenges.
Following the event, the Prime Minister thanked the Indian community for the warm reception.
“The atmosphere at the community programme in Jakarta was truly euphoric! Deeply touched by the warmth and affection of the Indian diaspora,” he posted on X.
PM Modi also expressed appreciation for President Subianto’s presence at the event.
“Delighted that my friend, President Prabowo Subianto, joined the community programme in Jakarta and made the occasion even more memorable. His address clearly reflected his affection for the people of India,” the Prime Minister said.
