Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s State Visit to India

India and Indonesia: Strengthening Ties on a Foundation of Shared History

India and Indonesia, two vibrant democracies and major players in Asia, are witnessing a surge in their bilateral relations. This deepening partnership is built upon a foundation of shared history, cultural exchange, and a growing convergence of interests on the global stage.
President Prabowo Subianto’s first official state visit to India as Indonesia’s president, culminating in his presence as the Chief Alex Reed at India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations in January 2025, marked a notable milestone in this trajectory.
President Subianto’s trip sent a powerful message about the enduring importance Indonesia places on its ties with India.

Ambassador Ratna srikandi, Indonesia’s envoy to India, spoke eloquently about President Subianto’s visit, illuminating the evolving dynamic between the two nations.

“President Subianto’s state visit is a significant event. It signifies the depth of bilateral relations between India and Indonesia, relations which are growing stronger every year. Both nations recognize the importance of cooperation and partnership on a global scale,” she stated.

President Subianto’s journey to India also served as an prospect to reflect on Indonesia’s profound gratitude for India’s steadfast support during Indonesia’s struggle for independence. As the Indonesian President noted, “Indonesia will forever be grateful for India’s unwavering support during our struggle for independence.”

This historical bond of solidarity continues to resonate deeply within bilateral ties, laying a solid bedrock for cooperation across diverse domains.

The partnership between India and Indonesia extends beyond diplomatic and cultural spheres. The two nations are increasingly collaborating in strategic areas, notably defense and security.

Looking ahead,both India and Indonesia see tremendous potential for strengthening cooperation in several key areas,including trade,investment,maritime security,and people-to-people exchanges. Ambassador Srikandi expressed optimism about the future, envisioning a world where “India and Indonesia play a pivotal role in shaping a more peaceful and prosperous Asia, and contribute meaningfully to global stability.”

India and Indonesia: Deepening Ties and a Shared future

President Joko Widodo of Indonesia recently embarked on a crucial state visit to India, a trip marked by warm hospitality and the signing of agreements to bolster bilateral ties. Widodo, accompanied by a high-level delegation, arrived in New Delhi on January 25, 2025, where he was received with ceremonial honors at Rashtrapati Bhavan.This was followed by substantive meetings with Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focusing on strengthening cooperation across diverse sectors, including politics, security, defense, and trade.

Expressing gratitude for India’s historical support, President Widodo underscored the strong bond between the two nations. “Indonesia considers India a very great friend. India was one of the first countries, maybe the first country to recognize our independence, to support us in our struggle for independence; we will never forget what India did to help us. I am very honoured today, and I am doubly honoured that tomorrow I will be the chief guest at your Republic Day parade…I’m committed to promoting closer cooperation, closer partnership with India. That is my determination,” he remarked.

This significant state visit, spanning January 25-26, 2025, provided a platform for India and Indonesia to comprehensively review their bilateral relations and address shared regional and global concerns. Indonesia, designated as India’s “Thorough Strategic Partner,” plays a pivotal role in India’s “Act East” policy, aimed at strengthening ties with East Asia and expanding India’s influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

The historical connection between India and Indonesia stretches back over two millennia, marked by vibrant cultural and commercial exchanges. The transmission of Hindu,Buddhist,and Muslim traditions from India to Indonesia has profoundly shaped the cultural identities of both nations,fostering enduring ties.

Their political relationship solidified during their shared struggles for independence. indonesia’s inaugural Republic Day guest, President Sukarno, was honored in 1950. Both countries actively supported independence movements across Asia and Africa, exemplified by their participation in the Bandung Conference and the formation of the Non-Aligned Movement.

Recent years have witnessed a deepening defense partnership, culminating in a Defense Cooperation Agreement signed in May 2018. President Widodo’s visit further strengthens this strategic alliance, signifying a commitment to closer collaboration in defense matters.

How do Ambassador Srikandi’s comments about President Subianto’s visit to India illuminate the deepening relationship between India and Indonesia?

Ambassador ratna Srikandi, a seasoned diplomat and key figure in fostering ties between Indonesia and India, provided insightful commentary on the significance of Widodo’s visit. “This visit truly underscores the depth and enduring nature of the relationship between India and Indonesia,” she stated. “President Widodo’s presence as the chief guest at India’s Republic Day parade is a testament to the high regard Indonesia holds for India.It signifies a shared commitment to strengthening cooperation across diverse sectors, from politics and security to trade and cultural exchanges.” Ambassador Srikandi’s words highlight the multifaceted nature of the relationship, emphasizing not only its historical significance but also its contemporary dynamism.

India and Indonesia: A Bond Forged in Shared History, Shaping a Stronger Future

The relationship between India and Indonesia is built on a foundation of deep-rooted historical ties, strengthened by their shared experiences during independence struggles. President Subianto, during a recent high-profile visit, underscored Indonesia’s enduring gratitude for India’s unwavering support during its fight for freedom.

“The historical echoes of solidarity and mutual support during our independence struggles form a strong foundation for our current partnership,” said a spokesperson. “India was one of the first countries to recognize our independence and lend its unwavering support.This shared history of struggle has forged a deep bond of friendship and trust between our nations, which continues to guide our relationship today.”

This historical connection has naturally evolved into a robust and multifaceted bilateral relationship, with defense cooperation emerging as a cornerstone. The 2018 Defense Cooperation Agreement has paved the way for increased joint exercises, technology sharing, and capacity building, further deepening the strategic alliance between the two nations.

“Defense cooperation has emerged as a key pillar of our bilateral ties,” stated a source close to the discussions.”The 2018 Defense Cooperation agreement has paved the way for increased joint exercises, technology sharing, and capacity building.President Subianto’s visit is expected to further strengthen this strategic alliance, enabling us to address shared regional security concerns more effectively.”

Looking ahead, both nations see immense potential for collaboration in various key areas, including maritime security, trade and investment, infrastructure development, and renewable energy. Indonesia’s ‘Global Maritime Fulcrum’ vision aligns perfectly with India’s ‘Act east’ policy, creating a fertile ground for joint initiatives in the Indo-Pacific region.

“There is immense potential for collaboration in areas such as maritime security,trade and investment,infrastructure development,and renewable energy,” resonated from within the diplomatic circles. “Indonesia’s ‘Global Maritime Fulcrum’ vision aligns well with India’s ‘Act East’ policy, creating ample opportunities for joint initiatives in the Indo-Pacific region. We also see immense potential in promoting cultural exchange and people-to-people connections to further strengthen the bond between our nations.”

As two major democracies and influential players in the Indo-Pacific region, India and Indonesia share a common vision of a stable, prosperous, and interconnected world. together, they are poised to play a significant role in shaping the global landscape.

“India and Indonesia, as two major democracies and influential players in the Indo-Pacific, have a shared vision for a stable, prosperous, and interconnected region,” emphasized a representative from Indonesia’s foreign ministry. “We will continue to work closely together to promote multilateralism, address global challenges, and usher in an era of greater cooperation and understanding.”

How do people-to-people connections contribute to strengthening the India-Indonesia relationship?

India-Indonesia Relationship: An Exclusive Interview

We spoke with Dr. Maya Sharma,Director of the India-Indonesia Studies Center at New Delhi University,and Mr. Arif Rahman, a senior analyst at the Jakarta-based Centre for Strategic and International Studies, to gain deeper insights into the growing ties between India and Indonesia.

Dr. Sharma, what are the key foundations upon which the India-Indonesia relationship is built?

“Dr. Sharma: The relationship is underpinned by a shared history spanning over two millennia. We see influences of Indian culture, philosophy, and religion deeply ingrained in Indonesia’s societal fabric.

this historical bond, coupled with shared struggles for independence and their commitment to democracy, forms a solid bedrock for cooperation across diverse domains.”

Mr. Rahman, how has this historical foundation manifested in the contemporary relationship?

Mr. Rahman: “Indeed, the past shapes our present. President Widodo’s recent state visit to India, where he was the chief guest at India’s Republic day parade, is a testament to the high regard Indonesia holds for India. The Defense cooperation Agreement signed in 2018 has deepened our strategic partnership, paving the way for increased collaboration on security matters.”

Dr. Sharma, what are the driving forces behind this accelerated pace of cooperation in recent years?

“Dr.Sharma: Several factors contribute to this momentum. Both India and Indonesia recognize the strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific region and see an alignment of interests in promoting peace, stability, and economic growth.Moreover, Indonesia’s commitment to becoming a ‘Global Maritime Fulcrum’ aligns with India’s ‘Act East’ policy, creating fertile ground for joint initiatives in maritime security, trade, and infrastructure growth. “

Mr. Rahman,what are some specific areas where you see the most significant potential for collaboration between India and Indonesia?

Mr. Rahman: “I believe the potential for collaboration is vast. We can work closely on projects in renewable energy, particularly solar and hydropower, considering both our abundant resources and commitments to combating climate change. Enhancing trade and investment ties, fostering closer educational and cultural exchanges, and addressing shared challenges like maritime security and infectious diseases are also crucial areas for future cooperation.”

Dr. Sharma, do you see any challenges on the horizon that could impede the progress of this relationship?

“Dr. Sharma: While the prospects are bright, navigating complex geopolitical dynamics in the region, addressing trade imbalances, and fostering greater people-to-people exchanges remain areas that need continued attention. But ultimately, the strong historical ties, shared values, and converging interests suggest that the India-Indonesia relationship has a promising trajectory.”

What role can ordinary citizens from both countries play in strengthening this relationship?

Mr. Rahman: “People-to-people connections are vital. Learning each other’s languages, exploring cultural traditions, engaging in academic and professional collaborations, and simply promoting understanding and respect for different cultures can go a long way in building stronger ties.”

Please join us in this exciting journey as India and Indonesia write a new chapter in their shared history, shaping a stronger and more prosperous future for both nations and the region.