Indonesia – Modi Meets President Prabowo During Official Jakarta Visit
Indonesia – Prime Minister Narendra Modi held bilateral talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in Jakarta on Tuesday as part of his official state visit to Indonesia. The discussions were expected to cover a wide range of issues, including defence cooperation, maritime security, trade, investment and regional stability.
National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri accompanied the Prime Minister during the meeting. The engagement marked an important stage in Modi’s three-nation overseas visit, which began with Indonesia before continuing to Australia and New Zealand.
Ceremonial Reception Marks Start of State Visit
Modi arrived in Indonesia on Monday and received a formal ceremonial welcome from the Indonesian government. His aircraft was escorted by Indonesian Air Force fighter jets after entering the country’s airspace.
President Prabowo personally received Modi at the airport, where the Indian leader was also welcomed with a traditional Indonesian cultural performance. The visit is taking place from July 6 to July 8 at the invitation of the Indonesian President.
This is Modi’s fourth visit to Indonesia and the first bilateral visit since India and Indonesia upgraded their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2018. Officials from both countries are expected to use the visit to review progress made under that framework and identify areas for expanded cooperation.
Defence and Maritime Cooperation Remain Key Priorities
Defence and maritime collaboration are likely to feature prominently in the talks between the two leaders. India and Indonesia have steadily expanded security cooperation through regular military exercises, senior-level meetings and defence industry partnerships.
Indonesia’s purchase of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system has also strengthened defence ties between the two countries. Both nations have an interest in maintaining security and stability across the Indo-Pacific, particularly in the Indian Ocean and surrounding maritime routes.
India has been promoting its MAHASAGAR vision, which stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions. The framework focuses on security, sustainable growth and stronger regional cooperation in the maritime domain.
Before leaving India, Modi said his visit would help advance the country’s Act East Policy and reinforce its commitment to a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.
Cultural Links Highlight Shared Historical Ties
During the visit, Modi is expected to interact with members of the Indian community in Indonesia. He is also scheduled to travel with President Prabowo to the Prambanan Temple Complex in Yogyakarta.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site is regarded as an important reminder of the long-standing cultural and civilisational connections between India and Indonesia. Modi has previously described the temple complex as a symbol of the deep historical links shared by the two countries.
The visit is expected to underline how these cultural ties continue to support modern diplomatic and economic relations.
Trade and Critical Minerals on Bilateral Agenda
Indonesia remains India’s second-largest trading partner within the ASEAN region. Bilateral trade between the two countries reached USD 24.78 billion during the 2025-26 financial year.
More than 130 Indian companies have investments in Indonesia across sectors such as infrastructure, manufacturing, energy and services. Leaders are expected to explore additional opportunities for trade and investment during the visit.
Critical minerals are also expected to be discussed, as Indonesia is a major global supplier of nickel, bauxite, copper and tin. The country holds around 21 per cent of the world’s nickel reserves, making it an important partner for India’s renewable energy plans and long-term supply chain requirements.
Next Stops Include Australia and New Zealand
Following his engagements in Indonesia, Modi will travel to Australia and New Zealand. The wider tour is intended to strengthen India’s diplomatic outreach in the Indo-Pacific and expand cooperation in strategic, economic and people-to-people areas.
Members of the Indian diaspora in Indonesia have expressed hope that the visit will encourage new partnerships in mining, technology, energy, infrastructure and other emerging sectors.