Upgrading the strategic relationship was on top of the agenda during Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto’s four day-visit as the Chief Guest for India’s Republic Day celebrations, which had the first ever Indonesian military contingent taking part in a parade abroad.
The comprehensive discussions during the visit reflected a convergence of strategic interests, including maritime security, health collaboration, and educational exchanges.
While no mention was made of the expected sale of the Brahmos missile system to Indonesia, one of the notable areas of discussion was defence manufacturing, with both sides exploring possibilities for joint production and maintenance of defence platforms.
President Prabowo emphasized Indonesia’s interest in sourcing spare parts and engaging in collaborative shipbuilding projects with India.
Recognizing the importance of robust defence capabilities, both countries agreed to advance defence industrial cooperation, and an Indonesian defence delegation is expected to visit India to detail specific areas of collaboration.
Additionally, infrastructure development took centre-stage with a focus on Indonesia’s Sabang Port, strategically located near the Andaman Islands.
The port, which holds potential as a vital civilian hub, was identified as an investment opportunity for Indian companies. While the project is yet to gain full operational status, its development underscores the mutual interest in strengthening regional connectivity and maritime trade links.
The visit also saw agreements in health and education sectors. President Prabowo expressed keen interest in replicating India’s successful social welfare programs, such as the mid-day meal scheme and affordable medicine initiatives.
A Memorandum of Understanding was signed for health cooperation, focusing on building hospitals, training medical professionals, and implementing public health initiatives in Indonesia.
The two nations also discussed opening Indian educational institutions, including IITs and medical colleges, in Indonesia to foster greater educational collaboration.
Here are some key takeaways from the visit:
Defence and Security:
- Strengthened focus on defence manufacturing and supply chain collaboration.
- Agreement on Maritime Safety and Security covering crime prevention, search and rescue, and capacity building.
- Cooperation on maritime security, cyber security, counter-terrorism, and de-radicalization.
Enhanced Connectivity:
- Discussions included increasing direct connectivity between major cities like Delhi and Jakarta to boost tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.
- Plans to encourage airlines to establish more direct routes and reduce travel barriers.
- Focus on leveraging ports like Sabang (Indonesia) and Indian ports in the Andaman region for maritime trade connectivity.
Trade and Economy:
- Bilateral trade surpassed USD 30 billion last year.
- Commitment to diversify market access and trade baskets.
- Private sector engagement via the CEO Forum and private-sector agreements.
Geopolitical Coordination
- Shared commitment to maintaining peace, security, prosperity, and a rules-based order in the ASEAN and Indo-Pacific regions.
- Emphasis on ASEAN unity and centrality under India’s Act East Policy.
- Support for Freedom of Navigation per international laws.
- Collaboration on multilateral platforms like G20, ASEAN, BRICS, and the Indian Ocean Rim Association.
Digital and Technological Innovation:
- Focus on FinTech, Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, and Digital Public Infrastructure.
Health and Food Security:
- Sharing India’s experience with the Mid-Day Meal Scheme and Public Distribution System.
Energy and Science:
- Joint efforts in energy, critical minerals, science & technology, and space.
- Promotion of STEM education collaboration.
Disaster Management:
- Agreement for joint exercises between Disaster Management Authorities.
Cultural and Historical Ties:
- India to support conservation efforts at Prambanan Hindu Temple after contributing to Borobudur Temple.
- Indo-ASEAN Year of Tourism (2025) to promote cultural exchanges and tourism.
Global South Advocacy
- Pledge to coordinate efforts in global forums to prioritize the interests of the Global South.
