Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto announced on Tuesday that Indonesia has conferred its highest honour, the 'Bintang Adipurna' of the Republic of Indonesia medal of honour, upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Details of the Award
The Bintang Republik Indonesia (Star of the Republic of Indonesia) is Indonesia's highest order, awarded to both civilians and military personnel for their merits to the republic and its people. Officially instituted in 1959, this award is given to individuals who have rendered exceptional service to the unity, continuity, and prosperity of the Republic of Indonesia. The 'Bintang Republik Indonesia Adipurna' represents the pinnacle of civilian and military recognition, reserved for those who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to safeguarding the integrity, viability, and greatness of the Indonesian nation.
PM Modi's Response and Ceremonial Welcome
Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked Indonesia for the warm welcome upon his arrival in Jakarta. In a post on X, he said, "Thank you for the warm welcome at the Istana Merdeka!" PM Modi was accorded a grand ceremonial welcome at the Istana Merdeka, the Presidential Palace in Jakarta. Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal, stated that the visit marks a significant step in advancing the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The Ministry of External Affairs posted on X: "Prime Minister Narendra Modi was accorded a grand ceremonial welcome at the Istana Merdeka, the Presidential Palace in Jakarta. The visit marks a significant step in advancing the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, opening new avenues for cooperation across priority sectors while reinforcing the deep trust, shared values and enduring friendship that bind the two countries."
Expected Outcomes of the Visit
PM Modi's visit to Indonesia is expected to yield significant outcomes, according to sources. In a major endorsement of India's election management model, India will support the development of Indonesia-specific Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Following the proven success of India's air-to-air missile power in Operation Sindoor, Indonesia has decided to import Indian Astra missiles, sources revealed. To strengthen critical mineral supply chains, India will invest in the manufacturing of steel, nickel, and rare earth permanent magnets in Indonesia. Indonesia is expanding its Brahmos missile inventory, and India will support Indonesia with more batteries. India and Indonesia are set to jointly develop Sabang port, which overlooks the Strait of Malacca and is located 100 miles from India's Great Nicobar port project, according to sources.
Guestbook Signing and Bilateral Ties
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi signed the guestbook upon meeting Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at Istana Merdeka. Both leaders were seen shaking hands and exchanging cordial smiles. The visit underscores the deepening ties between the two nations, focusing on defense, technology, and infrastructure cooperation.
