PM Modi: Indonesia Is a Key Partner for India in ASEAN

JAKARTA, investortrust.id – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized Indonesia’s strategic importance as a “key partner” for India in ASEAN and the Indo-Pacific. Modi reaffirmed the shared commitment of India and Indonesia to ensuring peace, security, progress, and a rules-based order in the region.

Indonesia is our important partner in the ASEAN and Indo-Pacific regions. Both countries are committed towards maintaining peace, security, prosperity and rules-based order in this entire region. We agree that Freedom of Navigation must be ensured in accordance with International Laws,” Modi stated following his meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on Saturday, Jan 25, 2025.

 

Strengthening Regional and Global Cooperation

Modi highlighted India and Indonesia’s collaboration in international forums such as the G20, ASEAN, and the Indian Ocean Rim Association, while welcoming Indonesia’s recent membership in BRICS.

“In our Act Easy Policy, emphasis has been given to ASEAN unity and centrality. We continue to work together on platforms like G-20, ASEAN and Indian Ocean Rim Association. Now we are also welcoming the membership of Indonesia in BRICS. At all these forums, we will work in coordination and cooperation for the interests and priorities of the nations in the Global South,” said Modi.

Recalling Indonesia’s role as the chief guest during India’s first Republic Day, Modi expressed pride in hosting Indonesia as the chief guest again during India’s 75th Republic Day celebrations.

Comprehensive Cooperation

Reflecting on his 2018 visit to Indonesia, Modi noted that both nations had sought to elevate their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. During this visit, discussions with President Prabowo Subianto focused on various areas of collaboration, particularly in defense manufacturing and supply chains.

“We’ve also emphasized on cooperation in Maritime Security, Cyber Security, Counter-Terrorism and De-radicalisation. The agreement signed today on Maritime Safety and Security will strengthen our cooperation in the areas of Crime Prevention, Search and Rescue, and Capacity Building. Over the past few years, our bilateral trade has grown rapidly, and last year, this exceeded $30 billion,” Modi.

Expanding Economic Ties

Bilateral trade between India and Indonesia has grown significantly in recent years, surpassing $30 billion last year. Modi revealed that both sides agreed to explore market access diversification and trade expansion.

Modi said Prabowo's visit to India as Chief Guest for our Republic Day was "a matter of immense pride" for India. "We are all eager to witness the Indonesian marching squad for the very first time at the event. Once again, I extend a warm welcome to you and your delegation to India, ” Modi said.