Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday held delegation-level talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in Jakarta, following an exchange of MoUs and bilateral discussions. The Indian delegation included Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, among other officials.
PM Modi Receives Indonesia's Highest Civilian Honor
Addressing a joint press meet, PM Modi expressed profound gratitude for being conferred Indonesia's highest civilian honor, 'Bintang Adipurna'. "I would like to first thank my friend, President Prabowo, for the grand welcome," PM Modi said, adding, "This morning, I was accorded the highest honor with utmost grace and respect. This award is for all Indians, the affection of the Indonesian people, and the strong bilateral relations between our two nations."
The Bintang Republik Indonesia (Star of the Republic of Indonesia) is the country's highest order, awarded to civilians and military personnel for exceptional service to the republic. Established in 1959, the 'Bintang Republik Indonesia Adipurna' represents the pinnacle of recognition for safeguarding Indonesia's integrity and prosperity.
Deepening Bilateral Ties: A 'New Golden Chapter'
PM Modi underscored the deepening bilateral ties, describing the partnership as a "new golden chapter" for the 21st century. "In the past years, the relations between India and Indonesia have witnessed new trust, depth, and energy," he stated. Highlighting the 2018 Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, PM Modi noted that collaboration is "reaching new heights" across sectors including development, security, technology, culture, and education.
Key Outcomes: EVMs, Astra Missiles, and Strategic Investments
Sources told ANI that PM Modi's visit is expected to produce significant outcomes. In a major endorsement of India's election management model, India will support the development of Indonesia-specific Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). Additionally, following the proven success of India's air-to-air missile power in Operation Sindoor, Indonesia has decided to import Indian Astra missiles, sources familiar with the matter revealed.
To strengthen critical mineral supply chains, India will invest in manufacturing steel, nickel, and rare earth permanent magnets in Indonesia. Indonesia is also expanding its Brahmos missile inventory, and India will support Indonesia with more batteries. Furthermore, India and Indonesia are set to jointly develop Sabang port, which overlooks the Strait of Malacca and is located 100 miles away from India's Great Nicobar port project, according to sources.
Ceremonial Welcome and Strategic Significance
PM Modi was accorded a grand ceremonial welcome at the Istana Merdeka, the Presidential Palace in Jakarta. The visit is expected to further strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations, which has gained momentum in recent years. The collaboration spans key areas including defense, technology, and infrastructure, reflecting the growing trust and energy in bilateral relations.
