Indonesian Students in India Give Warm Welcome to President Prabowo During Delhi Visit
NEW DELHI, investortrust.id—President Prabowo Subianto received an enthusiastic welcome from Indonesian students studying in India on Thursday, Jan 23,2025, as dozens gathered at his hotel in New Delhi during an official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.
The students, enrolled in universities across the Indian capital, greeted the Indonesian leader with cheers and personal exchanges. Sonia, a public policy student at Delhi University, described the surprise of meeting a head of state who “approached each of us warmly.”
“We’ve been excitedly waiting for this moment,” Sonia said. “We hope the president creates more opportunities for dialogue with overseas students. Many of us have ideas to share about Indonesia’s future.”
Three students from Bali—Esti, Erna, and Ayu—echoed the sentiment, with Esti noting they had “waited weeks” for the encounter. Erna and Ayu, who are studying Sanskrit, urged Prabowo to consider establishing a Sanskrit-language university in Indonesia, emphasizing the linguistic and cultural ties between ancient Indian texts and Indonesian heritage.
“Sanskrit’s roots are deeply connected to Indonesia. We want to preserve that,” Erna said.
Other students, including Rajendra, Marvell, Sherry, and Faisal, praised Prabowo’s statesmanship. “His presence was powerful—more commanding in person,” said Faisal, an engineering student. Sherry added that the delegation hoped the visit would “deepen collaboration” between the two nations.
The trip, which included a traditional Indian dance performance upon arrival, marks Prabowo’s first official visit to India since taking office. Observers say the engagement underscores Jakarta’s focus on bolstering Southeast Asia-India relations amid shifting regional dynamics.