New Delhi [India]: For the first time in the history of India’s Republic Day celebrations, a marching contingent and band from Indonesia will lead the parade, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The announcement was made during a special briefing on the state visit of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, who is also the Chief Guest for the 76th Republic Day celebrations.
Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary (East) of the MEA, highlighted the significance of Indonesia’s participation in the parade. “This is not only the first time that we are having a contingent from Indonesia marching on Republic Day, but for Indonesia, it is the first time ever that a military band and a military contingent have participated in a parade abroad, anywhere,” he said.
He added, “This is of particular importance because the President is also a soldier by profession. He has taken a personal interest in the rehearsals of the army contingent in Jakarta before they arrived in India. He is extremely happy that this honour has been bestowed upon the Indonesian Army.”
Mazumdar described Indonesia as a crucial partner in India’s Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision. He emphasized that the state visit, led by President Prabowo Subianto, was both “timely” and “important,” covering a wide range of discussions to strengthen bilateral ties.
Strengthening Strategic Ties
President Subianto is accompanied by a high-powered delegation, including six cabinet ministers, senior officials, and a large business contingent. This marks his maiden state visit to India since assuming office in October 2024.
Earlier on Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with President Subianto at Hyderabad House in Delhi. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with a focus on sectors such as defense, security, maritime cooperation, economic ties, and cultural exchange.
Prime Minister Modi referred to Indonesia as an “important partner” in ASEAN and the Indo-Pacific. Both leaders exchanged views on regional and global issues, underscoring their shared vision for peace and security.
Historic Significance of the Visit
During a joint press statement, President Subianto expressed his gratitude and emphasized the historic ties between the two nations. He noted, “The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia is on land donated by the Indian government before we were recognised by many other countries in the world. We feel very honoured that I will be the Chief Guest at the Republic Day parade, especially since the first Chief Guest in India’s first Republic Day parade was President Sukarno. This is a great honour for me.”
President Subianto’s visit comes at the beginning of his tenure and the start of PM Modi’s third term, symbolizing a renewed commitment to a long-term strategic partnership.
Social Media Highlights
In a post on X, Indian Consul General Randhir Jaiswal stated, “India-Indonesia | Together for our vision of the Indo Pacific. PM @narendramodi and President @prabowo of Indonesia held wide-ranging talks at Hyderabad House today. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with a focus on defense & security, maritime domain, economic & people-to-people ties.”
President Prabowo Subianto arrived in New Delhi on Friday night, where he was received by Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita.