Indonesia – PM Modi Begins State Visit to Strengthen Strategic Partnership
Indonesia – Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a ceremonial welcome in Jakarta on Tuesday as he began his official visit to Indonesia, where discussions are expected to focus on strategic cooperation, trade, maritime security and investment.
Ceremonial Reception in Jakarta
Modi arrived in Indonesia on Monday for the first leg of his three-country visit. His aircraft was escorted by Indonesian Air Force fighter jets after entering the country’s airspace. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto received him at the airport, where a traditional cultural performance was also organised in his honour.
The visit is taking place from July 6 to July 8 at the invitation of President Prabowo. It is Modi’s fourth visit to Indonesia and the first bilateral visit since India and Indonesia elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2018.
Defence and Maritime Cooperation on Agenda
The two leaders are expected to review the full range of bilateral ties, with defence cooperation and maritime coordination likely to feature prominently in their discussions.
India and Indonesia have expanded security engagement through regular official exchanges, joint military exercises and cooperation in defence production. Indonesia’s purchase of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles has also added a new dimension to defence ties between the two countries.
The talks are expected to examine ways to improve coordination in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in areas related to maritime security, regional stability and economic development.
MAHASAGAR Vision and Indo-Pacific Focus
The visit is also linked to India’s MAHASAGAR framework, which stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions. The initiative outlines India’s approach to promoting security, stability and inclusive growth across maritime regions.
In his departure statement, Modi said the visit would strengthen India’s Act East Policy and its vision for a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
“My visit to Indonesia and Australia in the Eastern and Southern Indian Ocean, respectively, followed by New Zealand, will further strengthen India’s Act East Policy, MAHASAGAR Vision, as well as our outlook towards a free and open Indo-Pacific,” he said.
After completing his engagements in Indonesia, the Prime Minister will travel to Australia and New Zealand as part of the wider diplomatic tour.
Diaspora Outreach and Cultural Engagement
During the visit, Modi is scheduled to meet members of the Indian community in Indonesia. Members of the diaspora have expressed hope that the visit will support greater cooperation in sectors such as mining, infrastructure, energy and emerging technologies.
The Prime Minister is also expected to visit the UNESCO-listed Prambanan Temple Complex in Yogyakarta with President Prabowo. The historic site is regarded as an important symbol of the civilisational connections shared by India and Indonesia.
The temple complex reflects the longstanding cultural links between the two countries, which continue to influence their modern diplomatic and economic relationship.
Trade, Investment and Critical Minerals
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, according to the information provided.
More than 130 Indian companies have investments in Indonesia across multiple sectors, including manufacturing, infrastructure, energy and services.
Critical minerals are also expected to be discussed during the bilateral meetings. Indonesia holds around 21 per cent of global nickel reserves and is a major producer of bauxite, copper and tin. These resources are important for India’s supply chain planning and clean energy transition.
The visit is expected to provide fresh momentum to the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with both countries looking to expand cooperation in security, commerce, technology and people-to-people exchanges.