India and Indonesia strengthen defence and trade ties

New Delhi: India and Indonesia have agreed to enhance their bilateral relationship, focusing on defence manufacturing, supply chains, and expanding economic cooperation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto for in-depth talks aimed at revitalizing ties between the two nations.

Subianto, who is on a three-day visit to India, will be the chief guest at the Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path on Sunday. During the talks, Modi referred to Indonesia as an "important partner" in the 10-nation ASEAN bloc and in the Indo-Pacific region, underscoring both countries’ commitment to upholding a rules-based order in the region.

“We agree that the freedom of navigation should be ensured in line with international law,” Modi stated, amid increasing global concerns over China’s growing military presence in the Indo-Pacific.

The two leaders discussed a range of bilateral issues, with a focus on defence collaboration and supply chain integration. A significant agreement was signed to bolster maritime security cooperation, focusing on crime prevention, search and rescue operations, and capacity building.

Modi also highlighted the need to diversify trade relations and enhance market access to boost the economic partnership between India and Indonesia. Both countries pledged to deepen cooperation in emerging sectors like FinTech, artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and digital public infrastructure.

In addition, the discussions emphasized greater collaboration in areas such as maritime security, cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and de-radicalization. India welcomed Indonesia's membership in BRICS, which was a key topic during the talks.

Subianto called the discussions "very frank" and directed officials to accelerate the economic partnership with India, signaling a commitment to intensifying cooperation in several key areas of mutual interest.

With PTI inputs