New Delhi [India]: Indonesia’s President, Prabowo Subianto, received a formal ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on January 25, 2025, marking the beginning of his first State Visit to India since assuming office in October 2024. President Subianto has been invited as the Chief Guest for India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations.
During the visit, President Subianto met with Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Their discussions focused on strengthening the bilateral relationship between the two nations, particularly in political, security, defence, and trade cooperation.
Expressing gratitude for India’s longstanding friendship, President Subianto stated:
“…Indonesia considers India a very great friend. India was one of the first countries, maybe the first country to recognise 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.”
The visit, scheduled from January 25 to 26, 2025, provides an opportunity for both nations to review their strategic partnership and discuss key regional and global challenges. As a Comprehensive Strategic Partner, Indonesia plays a crucial role in India’s “Act East” policy, which seeks to bolster ties with East Asia and the Indo-Pacific region.
India and Indonesia share deep-rooted historical ties, with cultural and commercial exchanges spanning over two millennia. The shared heritage of Hindu, Buddhist, and Muslim traditions has enriched the cultures of both nations, fostering a strong foundation for their enduring partnership.
The political relationship between India and Indonesia was forged during their mutual struggles for independence. Notably, Indonesia’s first Republic Day guest in 1950 was President Sukarno, reflecting the solidarity between the two nations. Their collaborative efforts in supporting Asian and African independence movements, including their roles in the Bandung Conference and the Non-Aligned Movement, further underscore their shared history.
In recent years, defence cooperation has become a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship. A Defence Cooperation Agreement signed in May 2018 exemplifies the growing strategic alignment between the two countries. President Subianto’s visit represents a significant step toward further deepening these ties.