MAY 2024

India and Indonesia bilateral relationship is on an upward trajectory since the visit of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to Bali, Indonesia in November 2022, and Jakarta in September 2023. President Joko Widodo visited New Delhi, for the G20 Leaders Summit in September 2023. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joko Widodo maintain a great deal of bonhomie and mutual friendship. Both leaders share “Common Vision on Maritime Security” and an endeavour for deepening “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.”  There are convergences and synergy between India’s vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 and Golden Indonesia @2045. India’s Aatmnirbhar Bharat or self-reliance had found resonance in Indonesia’s “down streaming” policy.

The bilateral trade reached a record high of US$ 38.84 Billion in 2022-23, with Indonesia emerging as the second largest trading partner in the ASEAN region. Tourism sector has seen phenomenal growth. India was the second largest source of tourists to Indonesia in 2023-24. People to people connect stands enhanced by direct air flight operations. Recently, Vistara and Indigo Airlines had announced flights connecting Mumbai, New Delhi and Bangalore to Bali and Jakarta.

Indonesia is also home to one of the largest Indian Diaspora in the world. A large number of Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) stay in different parts of Indonesia including Bali, Java, Sumatra Islands. Deep social and cultural linkages bind our countries together. India was the first country to recognise Indonesia’s independence in 1945. Both countries are commemorating 75 years of diplomatic relations in 2024, by undertaking a series of events and activities. Building on an already robust economic engagement, there is considerable potential for collaboration in the field of “New and Emerging technologies” Digital, Blockchain, AI, Quantum, Critical minerals, EVs, renewable energies, infrastructure development and blue economy.

--Basir Ahmed, Deputy Chief of Mission
Embassy of India, Jakarta, Indonesia