India will support the development of Indonesia-specific Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in a major endorsement of India's election management model, sources told ANI. Additionally, Indonesia has decided to import Indian Astra air-to-air missiles following the proven success of India's missile power in Operation Sindoor.
Defence and Strategic Cooperation
Indonesia is expanding its BrahMos missile inventory, and India will support it with more batteries. The two nations are set to jointly develop Sabang port, which overlooks the strategic Strait of Malacca and lies 100 miles from India's Great Nicobar port project.
Critical Mineral Supply Chain Investments
To strengthen the critical mineral supply chain, India will invest in the manufacturing of steel, nickel, and rare earth permanent magnets in Indonesia. These investments aim to secure resources essential for high-tech industries and renewable energy.
High-Level Engagements and Ceremonial Welcome
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi signed the guestbook upon meeting Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at Istana Merdeka (Presidential Palace). Both leaders exchanged cordial greetings. PM Modi was accorded a grand ceremonial welcome upon his arrival in Jakarta, marking the start of his official state visit to deepen bilateral ties.
The Ministry of External Affairs posted on X: "Prime Minister @narendramodi 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."
PM Modi thanked President Prabowo, saying, "Thank you for the warm welcome at the Istana Merdeka."
Visit Details and Bilateral Relations
The Prime Minister arrived in Indonesia on Monday, launching a three-nation diplomatic visit. His aircraft was escorted by Indonesian Air Force fighter jets, and he was personally received by President Prabowo at the airport, greeted with a traditional cultural dance performance. The official visit runs from July 6 to 8 at the personal invitation of President Prabowo, marking his fourth journey to the Southeast Asian country. This is the inaugural bilateral visit since the two nations elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2018.
The high-level engagement is expected to inject momentum into the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with defence and maritime coordination high on the agenda. Security relations have expanded significantly, driven by frequent high-level exchanges, joint military exercises, collaborative defence industry initiatives, and Indonesia's landmark acquisition of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles.
