India and Indonesia Strengthen Bilateral Ties with Focus on Technology and Strategic Cooperation

New Delhi: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto attended India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations as the chief guest, marking a significant moment in the growing diplomatic and strategic relationship between the two nations.

The celebrations at Kartavya Path, a venue synonymous with India’s national pride, concluded with a sense of shared commitment towards peace, prosperity, and mutual development.

Earlier in the day, President Subianto held extensive bilateral talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House in the capital. Their discussions spanned a wide array of subjects, focusing primarily on boosting economic, technological, and defence collaboration.

Both leaders signed several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), with digital infrastructure, Fintech, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and digital public infrastructure taking centre stage as key areas of cooperation.

In his address, PM Modi underscored Indonesia’s growing role in the ASEAN and Indo-Pacific regions and emphasized India’s commitment to maintaining a rules-based order.

The two nations, both major players in the region, agreed to work together on enhancing bilateral trade, which reached over $30 billion in 2024 and sought to expand trade baskets and market access in sectors like technology, health, energy, and defence.

“We are committed to strengthening our cooperation in Fintech, AI, IoT, and digital public infrastructure,” said Modi. “Indonesia is an important partner for us, and these collaborations will foster shared growth and innovation in these crucial sectors.”

PM Modi also highlighted the importance of maritime safety, cyber security, and counter-terrorism, all of which were included in the newly signed agreements aimed at enhancing cooperation between the two nations.

Both leaders discussed joint efforts to combat regional challenges, including issues related to de-radicalization and security in the Indo-Pacific region.

The agreement on maritime security will focus on crime prevention, search and rescue operations, and capacity building, reinforcing the shared commitment to peace and stability in the region.

Additionally, energy, critical minerals, science, technology, and space cooperation are expected to see significant progress, with both nations aligning their efforts to address global challenges such as climate change and sustainable development.

On cultural ties, Modi referenced the deep-rooted historical and cultural connections between the two countries, noting the influence of Indian epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata in Indonesian culture. He also spoke about India’s role in the preservation of Indonesia’s Prambanan Hindu Temple, further cementing the nations’ historical bonds.

Prabowo Subianto, reflecting on the longstanding relationship between the two nations, expressed his gratitude to India for its support, especially in Indonesia’s bid for permanent BRICS membership.

“Indonesia considers India a long-time friend, and this visit to India holds great significance for both our countries,” said Subianto. He also welcomed India’s support for Indonesia’s BRICS membership, noting the potential benefits for global stability and regional cooperation.

The leaders also discussed the upcoming Indo-ASEAN Year of Tourism in 2025, which aims to promote cultural exchanges and bolster tourism between India and Indonesia.

With the growing emphasis on technology-driven initiatives, India and Indonesia have set a clear trajectory for future cooperation, focusing on sectors that will drive the global digital economy.

As both countries continue to expand their strategic partnership, their collaborative efforts in defence, digital infrastructure, and technological innovation promise to shape the future of the Indo-Pacific region.

The visit marks a historic moment, as Subianto’s delegation includes Indonesia’s first-ever military contingent to participate in the Republic Day parade outside Indonesia, highlighting the deepening defence and cultural ties between the two nations.

The strengthening of ties between India and Indonesia reflects both countries’ shared vision for regional peace, stability, and technological progress, with an emphasis on collaborative innovation and security in an increasingly interconnected world.

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