IIM Campus, UPI, AI, and Critical Minerals: PM Modi Announces New Era in India-Indonesia Relations
India and Indonesia are enhancing their bilateral relations, focusing on cooperation in defence, trade, technology, maritime security, and cultural exchanges. This initiative follows discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Tuesday. PM Modi described the partnership as entering a “golden chapter” that will significantly impact the 21st century. The talks resulted in the signing of eight agreements and several memorandums of understanding.
Defence, maritime security and trade
During a joint press conference, PM Modi emphasized the increasing trust between India and Indonesia, which is bolstering their defence and maritime cooperation. He stated that both nations agreed to enhance defence exchanges, disaster management, and industrial collaboration. Additionally, their coast guards will collaborate on maritime safety and security in the Indian Ocean. The leaders also committed to improving cooperation in the blue economy, port development, and maritime trade.
Technology, startups and education
India and Indonesia plan to exchange best practices in sustainable farming and agro-technology. PM Modi highlighted the importance of technology in the modern era, announcing a significant agreement aimed at fostering collaboration among youth in fields such as artificial intelligence, telecommunications, and digital public infrastructure. The leaders also agreed to strengthen ties between startups in both countries. Furthermore, PM Modi revealed plans for India to establish a campus of the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bangalore in Indonesia, which is expected to benefit young people across the ASEAN region.
Critical minerals, steel and digital payments
PM Modi noted the growing importance of resilient technology supply chains and announced a key agreement to enhance cooperation in the critical minerals and steel sectors. He mentioned that new partnerships are being formed between companies from both nations in stainless steel and rare-earth magnets. On the financial front, he welcomed the planned integration of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with Indonesia’s payment system, stating that this move will improve both the ease of doing business and travel.
Cultural ties and heritage
The cultural aspect of the bilateral relationship was also highlighted during the talks. PM Modi announced plans to launch a conservation project for the Prambanan Temple in Yogyakarta, a monument over 1,000 years old that symbolizes the shared heritage of India and Indonesia. Additionally, both countries will commemorate the centenary of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore’s visit to Indonesia, designating it as the “Tagore-Dewantara Year of Cultural and Educational Diplomacy.” PM Modi noted that the educational philosophy of Indonesia’s first Education Minister, Dewantara, was significantly influenced by Tagore.
PM Modi’s visit to Indonesia
PM Narendra Modi arrived in Jakarta on Monday for a three-day visit, marking his second trip to Indonesia as prime minister since 2018. This visit follows Indonesian President Prabowo’s attendance at India’s Republic Day celebrations as chief guest. PM Modi was welcomed by Prabowo at Halim Perdanakusuma Air Force Base, where his aircraft was escorted into Indonesian airspace by three fighter jets. Both nations are members of the G20 and BRICS, and the visit aims to further strengthen cooperation across strategic sectors.
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