Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that India is moving forward with the mantra of 'reform, perform and transform' during a diaspora event in Jakarta on Tuesday, attended by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and his top ministers. Modi emphasised that India's self-reliance serves as a multiplying force not only for Indonesia but for the entire ASEAN region.
Modi praises President Prabowo as a 'true friend of India'
Speaking at the gathering, Modi told President Prabowo that he is a 'true friend of India.' The Prime Minister highlighted India's consistent reforms and performance, stating, 'India has carried out one reform after another. We have consistently performed, and that's why the country is transforming today. We are moving forward with the mantra of reform, perform and transform.'
Modi described India's growth trajectory in one line: '1.4 billion aspirations in motion.' He added, 'India is not just the world's fastest-growing economy. India is a nation with a billion-plus dreams in motion.' He noted that India's economy plays a major role in driving global growth.
India's unstoppable momentum across sectors
The Prime Minister listed key areas where India is making strides: 'From energy to connectivity and chip manufacturing, India is unstoppable. Today's India is not just fulfilling its own dreams, but also fulfilling the dreams of every friendly nation. India walks on the mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.'
Modi underscored that India's self-reliance amplifies opportunities for Indonesia and the broader ASEAN bloc. As India modernises its ports, builds new ships, and explores new sea routes to strengthen its maritime sector, he said, 'Indonesia stands as our favourite friend.'
Shared civilisational heritage and future goals
Recalling President Prabowo's comment that he has 'India's DNA in him,' Modi said, 'Your statement touched the hearts of Indians. And this DNA is made of mutual trust, made of shared heritage, made of shared memories.' He added that the relationship between India and Indonesia is rooted in shared civilisational heritage and the seas that connect them.
Modi noted that Indonesia's highest honour conferred on him is another symbol of the close friendship between the two countries. He urged the Indian community to tell their Indonesian friends about India and encourage them to visit, especially with direct flights now available.
Modi to visit Prambanan Temple, a UNESCO site
Modi, who arrived in Jakarta on Monday as part of a three-nation tour that will also cover Australia and New Zealand, announced he will visit the Prambanan Temple in Yogyakarta on Wednesday. The centuries-old temple, located about 17 kilometres northeast of Yogyakarta, is Indonesia's largest Hindu temple and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Prime Minister concluded by emphasising shared goals: 'Whether in Indonesia or India, our shared goal is development. We cannot afford to wait or stop.'
