India and Indonesia on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between their Election Commissions to co-develop election technology, including electronic voting machines (EVMs) tailored for Indonesia. The agreement, announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's three-day official visit to Jakarta, was described by both leaders as opening a "new golden chapter" in bilateral relations.
Democratic Cooperation and EVM Development
Under the MoU, India will share its electoral expertise to help Indonesia transition from its traditional single-day paper ballot system to digital voting. The goal is to deploy Indonesia-specific EVMs for the country's 2029 elections. India has used EVMs across all 543 Lok Sabha constituencies since 2004 and has previously assisted Bhutan, Nepal, and Namibia with election technology.
Prime Minister Modi, addressing a joint press conference with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, said, "Democratic values and unity in diversity have been shared strengths for both India and Indonesia. We are set to further strengthen our democratic cooperation through an MoU between the Election Commissions of both nations."
Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Elevated
The leaders also reviewed the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established in 2018, noting progress in development, security, technology, culture, and education. Modi emphasized India's commitment to ASEAN centrality, stating, "India has always attached special importance to ASEAN centrality."
President Subianto and PM Modi discussed expanding cooperation in maritime security, defense, and trade, aligning with their shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Ceremonial Welcome and Honors
Upon arriving in Jakarta on Monday, Modi's aircraft was escorted by Indonesian fighter jets. He received a grand ceremonial welcome led by President Subianto, featuring traditional cultural dance performances. Indonesia also conferred upon Modi its highest civilian honor, the Bintang Adipurna, for which he expressed profound gratitude.
This is Modi's fourth visit to Indonesia, and it serves as a platform to solidify bilateral ties and strategic alignment in the Indo-Pacific region.
