What’s on the Agenda for PM Modi's Talks with Indonesia's President Prabowo Subianto?

Strengthening Ties: PM Modi's Visit to Indonesia

Jakarta: On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in bilateral discussions with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, aiming to invigorate the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership across various sectors such as energy, trade, maritime cooperation, and defense.

The agenda for their meeting is anticipated to include enhancing collaboration in defense, maritime partnerships, critical minerals, food security, and the digital economy. They will also assess the progress made since the partnership was elevated in May 2018.

India's Ambassador to Indonesia, Sandeep Chakravorty, mentioned that both leaders are likely to announce the initiation of restoration efforts at a temple complex during this visit.

Earlier that day, PM Modi received a grand ceremonial welcome in Jakarta, marking the start of his visit aimed at bolstering bilateral relations.

As he approached the Merdeka Palace, the Presidential Palace of Indonesia, he was greeted by enthusiastic schoolchildren waving the flags of both nations.

President Prabowo Subianto warmly welcomed PM Modi, and the two leaders shared a heartfelt hug.

This was followed by the playing of the national anthems of both countries.

PM Modi, who arrived in Jakarta on Monday afternoon as part of a three-nation tour that includes Australia and New Zealand, was met at the airport by President Subianto, a rare diplomatic gesture.

Expressing his gratitude, PM Modi stated he was 'touched' by the warm welcome and expressed optimism that their discussions would further enhance bilateral relations.

He remarked on X, 'I’m touched by President Prabowo Subianto’s gesture of welcoming me at the airport. In 2018, we elevated our relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which has benefited our people. During this visit, President Prabowo Subianto and I will hold discussions aimed at adding even more momentum to this partnership across diverse sectors.'

This visit marks PM Modi's fourth trip to Indonesia, but it is his first bilateral visit since the partnership was upgraded.

In addition to their talks, the leaders plan to visit the Prambanan Temple complex in Yogyakarta, which is Indonesia's largest Hindu temple complex and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

PM Modi expressed, 'President Prabowo and I will also visit the Prambanan Temple complex in Yogyakarta. This visit will strengthen the cultural ties between our two nations even further. While in Indonesia, I am also very much looking forward to the opportunity to interact with the Indian community.'

Last year, PM Modi met President Subianto during his visit to New Delhi, where they signed numerous agreements to enhance cooperation in strategic and economic areas.

The Indonesia leg of PM Modi's tour is the first stop before he heads to Australia and New Zealand for further high-level engagements.