New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday described the relationship between India and Indonesia as the beginning of a “golden chapter,” saying the growing partnership would have a far reaching and positive impact on the 21st century. During his visit to Jakarta, the two countries agreed to strengthen cooperation across key sectors, including defence, maritime security, healthcare, trade, technology and the blue economy.
Addressing a joint press statement alongside Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, Modi said the increasing trust between the two nations had created new opportunities for strategic collaboration. He announced that both sides had agreed to expand defence exchanges, industrial cooperation and disaster management initiatives, while their coast guards would work together to enhance maritime safety and security in the Indian Ocean.
As maritime neighbours, India and Indonesia also decided to deepen cooperation in port development, maritime trade and the blue economy, reflecting their shared commitment to regional stability and economic growth.
During the visit, President Prabowo conferred Indonesia’s highest civilian honour, the Bintang Adipurna Medal of Honour, on Prime Minister Modi. Expressing gratitude for the recognition, Modi said the award belonged to the people of India and symbolised the deep historical and cultural ties shared by the two countries. He thanked the Indonesian leadership and its citizens for the honour.
The Prime Minister highlighted that the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established between India and Indonesia in 2018 has continued to grow stronger, with cooperation expanding across development, security, education, culture and technology. He noted that both countries share a common goal of improving public welfare and reducing poverty through effective social programmes.
Modi also announced that healthcare collaboration would be further strengthened, making affordable, high quality Indian medicines more accessible in Indonesia while supporting the training and capacity building of Indonesian doctors and healthcare professionals.
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to broadening cooperation across multiple sectors, signalling a new phase in bilateral ties aimed at promoting regional prosperity, economic development and stronger strategic engagement.
