President Prabowo Subianto hosted Prime Minister Modi in Jakarta, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral ties across multiple strategic sectors. Confirming the development, Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal announced that the two countries had reached an agreement for cooperation on the BrahMos missile system.
The two sides also concluded an agreement on air-to-air missile cooperation, which, according to Jaiswal, will enhance technology collaboration and strengthen the defence capabilities of both countries. However, no further details of either agreement were disclosed. An Indonesian Defence Ministry spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment.
Following the bilateral meeting, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the growing trust between New Delhi and Jakarta, stating that it had become the foundation for expanding cooperation in defence, security, and maritime affairs.
Addressing reporters, Modi said the two countries had agreed to strengthen defence exchanges, disaster management cooperation, and industrial collaboration. He also announced that the coast guards of India and Indonesia would work together to enhance maritime safety and security across the Indian Ocean.
Beyond defence cooperation, the two countries agreed to deepen collaboration in the critical minerals sector, an area in which Indonesia possesses abundant natural resources. The leaders also announced a new partnership between companies from both nations in the production of stainless steel and rare earth magnets.
President Prabowo described economic cooperation as one of the principal pillars of India-Indonesia relations. He said both leaders had agreed to increase bilateral trade and accelerate negotiations on a preferential trade agreement aimed at expanding commercial ties between the two countries.
The leaders also welcomed ongoing efforts to restore the Prambanan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Yogyakarta, which Prime Minister Modi and President Prabowo are scheduled to visit together on Wednesday.
After concluding his Indonesia visit, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to travel to Australia and New Zealand as part of his ongoing diplomatic engagements.
The agreements reached during the Jakarta summit underscore the expanding strategic partnership between India and Indonesia, reflecting growing cooperation in defence, economic development, maritime security, advanced technology, and regional connectivity while reinforcing the importance of closer collaboration between Asia's two largest democracies.
About The Author
Comment List