Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday arrived in Indonesia on the first leg of his three-nation Indo-Pacific tour, receiving a ceremonial welcome that underscored the growing strategic importance of India-Indonesia ties as both countries prepare to expand cooperation in defence, maritime security, trade, energy and critical minerals.
In a special gesture reserved for visiting leaders, Indonesian Air Force F-16 and Sukhoi-30 fighter aircraft escorted the Prime Minister’s aircraft after it entered Indonesian airspace. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto personally received Modi at Jakarta’s Halim Perdanakusuma Air Base, where he was accorded a guard of honour and welcomed with traditional cultural performances.
Members of the Indian diaspora gathered at the airport, greeting the Prime Minister with chants of “Modi, Modi” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai”. Later, Modi said he was “touched” by President Prabowo’s personal gesture of receiving him at the airport.
Defence, maritime security high on agenda
The visit marks Modi’s first bilateral trip to Indonesia since the two countries elevated relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during his 2018 visit. It also comes months after President Prabowo attended India’s Republic Day celebrations in January as the Chief Guest.
Bilateral talks are expected to focus on defence cooperation, maritime security, connectivity, trade, digital technology, healthcare, energy and critical minerals. Indonesia occupies a pivotal position along key sea lanes linking the Indian and Pacific Oceans, and both countries have consistently backed a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific.
Defence collaboration is likely to feature prominently following Indonesia’s decision earlier this year to procure the India-developed BrahMos missile system. Officials also expect discussions on joint exercises, maritime domain awareness and defence manufacturing.
Economic ties are expected to receive a major push, with cooperation in renewable energy, electric-vehicle supply chains, palm oil, coal, digital economy and critical minerals likely to figure in the talks.
Civilisational links and wider outreach
Beyond strategic issues, the visit carries strong cultural symbolism. Modi and President Prabowo are scheduled to visit the UNESCO-listed Prambanan Temple complex, highlighting the centuries-old civilisational links between India and Indonesia.
Ahead of the visit, Modi described Indonesia as a “valued maritime neighbour and comprehensive strategic partner” and said the two nations share deep historical, cultural and people-to-people ties. He is also expected to interact with members of the Indian diaspora.
Indonesia is the first stop of Modi’s July 6–11 tour, which will also take him to Australia and New Zealand. The tour is being seen as a significant diplomatic outreach aimed at reinforcing India’s Act East Policy, MAHASAGAR Vision and its expanding strategic partnerships across the Indo-Pacific.
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