Prime Minister Modi Embarks on Three-Nation Tour to Strengthen Ties
Modi's Journey Begins
Modi greets as he departs for Indonesia, from New Delhi on Monday. (Photo:PTI)
New Delhi, Jul 6: On Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced a significant three-nation tour, visiting Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand. This trip aims to bolster India's Act East Policy, the MAHASAGAR Vision, and its dedication to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.
Modi's itinerary includes Indonesia from July 6-8, Australia from July 8-10, and New Zealand from July 10-11, focusing on enhancing bilateral relationships.
In his departure statement, Modi remarked, "My journey to Indonesia and Australia, located in the Eastern and Southern Indian Ocean respectively, followed by New Zealand, will further reinforce India's Act East Policy and our vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific."
MAHASAGAR, which stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions, encapsulates India's vision for security and growth across various regions.
Invited by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, Modi expressed his anticipation for the visit from July 6-8. He noted, "During my first visit to Indonesia in 2018, we elevated our bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership."
This marks Modi's first bilateral visit since the partnership upgrade and follows President Prabowo's state visit to India as the chief guest for the Republic Day celebrations in January 2025.
"India and Indonesia have deep-rooted civilizational and people-to-people connections, and my visit will further enhance our multifaceted partnership," he added.
During his stay, Modi plans to engage with the Indian community in Indonesia and visit the Prambanan Temple complex in Yogyakarta alongside President Prabowo, highlighting the cultural ties between the nations.
Following Indonesia, Modi will head to Melbourne at the invitation of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
"This visit will strengthen our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and I will discuss with Prime Minister Albanese ways to advance our relations in defense, security, trade, education, and people-to-people connections," he stated.
In Melbourne, Modi intends to meet with the Indian diaspora, a vital component of the strategic partnership.
The final destination of his tour will be Auckland, invited by New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.
"This visit will build on the strong momentum in our bilateral relations following Prime Minister Luxon's visit to India in March 2025," he remarked.
Modi plans to discuss enhancing economic, trade, and commercial ties with Luxon, emphasizing the commitment to strengthening bilateral trade through a Free Trade Agreement.
"Our bilateral relationship has greatly benefited from the contributions of the Indian diaspora, and I look forward to addressing a large gathering of the Indian community who have excelled in various fields during this visit," he concluded.