NEW DELHI: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has described India as an important partner for his nation, emphasizing India's major role in supporting Indonesia’s fight for independence.

Speaking ahead of his state visit to India, President Subianto expressed his intent to deepen ties between the two nations.

President Subianto, who is the Chief Guest for India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations, will receive a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Saturday morning. He is set to engage in bilateral discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House later in the day. Furthermore, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar will meet him at the Taj Mahal Hotel, followed by a meeting with President Droupadi Murmu in the evening.

The Indonesian leader outlined his agenda, stating that apart from attending Republic Day events, he aims to enhance strategic cooperation with India in areas such as security, maritime affairs, and digital technology.

Strengthening Ties Through History

President Subianto arrived in New Delhi on Thursday night to a warm reception at the airport. Minister of State P. Margherita welcomed him, highlighting the significance of his visit. This marks his first trip to India as Head of State and adds to a legacy of deepening India-Indonesia relations. Notably, Indonesia's first President, Sukarno, was the Chief Guest at India’s inaugural Republic Day in 1950.

This year, a 352-member Indonesian marching band and contingent will participate in India’s Republic Day Parade, marking the first time Indonesia is sending such a delegation to an international national day parade.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2018 visit to Indonesia elevated the bilateral relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The leaders have also interacted during global events like the G20 Summit in 2024 in Brazil.

Areas of Collaboration

Maritime and Cultural Connections: India and Indonesia share close maritime ties, with cultural exchanges dating back centuries. Festivals like Bali Yatra celebrate historic trade voyages between the two regions.

1. Economic Engagement: Bilateral trade between the nations reached $29.40 billion in 2023-24, with Indian investments in sectors like infrastructure, power, and textiles.
2. Defence Relations: The two countries have strengthened defence ties through agreements and joint exercises, including “Garuda Shakti” and “Samudra Shakti.”
3. Space Cooperation: Since 1997, India and Indonesia have collaborated on space missions, with ISRO establishing ground stations in Papua.
4. Healthcare Partnerships: Apollo Hospitals is working with Indonesia’s Mayapada Hospital to create a sustainable “green hospital” in the new capital, Ibu Kota Nusantara.
5. Tourism and Connectivity

Direct flights between India and Indonesia began in August 2023, covering routes such as Mumbai-Jakarta and Delhi-Bali. Over 600,000 Indian tourists visited Bali in 2023-24, making India the second-largest source of visitors.

Indian Diaspora in Indonesia

Approximately 150,000 people of Indian origin live in Indonesia, along with 14,000 Indian nationals working across various industries.

Outcomes of the Visit

President Subianto’s visit is expected to result in multiple agreements and announcements spanning trade, healthcare, defence, digital technologies, and cultural exchanges. The 3rd CEO Forum will also take place during his trip, fostering further business collaboration.