JAKARTA: During an interaction with the Indian community, S Jaishankar drew attention to the parallels between India and Indonesia in their quest for independence and subsequent development. He emphasized that both nations fought for freedom during a similar period and experienced significant sympathy and support within their respective societies.

"In looking at each other, India and Indonesia, there is an inherent sense of attachment. This emotional connection, I believe, is a valuable resource that strengthens our relationship," expressed Jaishankar.

Recognizing the natural attachment between the two countries, Jaishankar acknowledged their simultaneous attainment of independence and similar circumstances in nation-building.

"Our independence was achieved around the same time. We engaged in nation-building under similar circumstances," shared the External Affairs Minister. "India and Indonesia share numerous commonalities, not just beginning with the letter 'I' or geographical proximity, but also as large countries with immense diversity."

Highlighting the importance of the Indian community residing abroad, Jaishankar referred to them as the "official custodians" of the India-Indonesia relationship.

During his visit to Indonesia, Jaishankar also met with ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn and proposed India-ASEAN dialogues focusing on finance, cybersecurity, and maritime domains.

"No overseas program is complete without meeting the Indian community. You are the real owners of this relationship. Your contribution, hard work, and effort are indispensable for fostering ties, not only with Indonesia," he expressed.

During his six-day visit to Indonesia and Thailand from July 12-18, S Jaishankar held discussions with ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn, where he advocated for the development of a comprehensive strategic partnership between India and ASEAN. He suggested India-ASEAN dialogues in finance, cybersecurity, and maritime affairs.

"Commenced my engagements in Indonesia with a meeting with ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn. Explored the progress of our comprehensive strategic partnership. Proposed India-ASEAN dialogues in finance, cyber, and maritime domains," tweeted EAM Jaishankar on Wednesday.

He further highlighted the ongoing collaborative efforts in energy, disaster management, and health and wellness, expressing the agreement to expand their Track II engagement.

Jaishankar emphasized that the ASEAN relationship lays the foundation for the Indo-Pacific Vision and reiterated India's firm commitment to the principle of ASEAN centrality

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