Modi Begins Three-Nation Tour in Indonesia with Focus on Defence, Critical Minerals
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Jakarta on Monday for the first leg of his three-nation tour to Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand. He was received at the airport by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and several ministers.
Modi said the visit will further strengthen India's Act East Policy, MAHASAGAR Vision, and India's outlook towards a free and open Indo-Pacific. The leaders will hold a formal bilateral meeting on Tuesday, followed by the signing of several memoranda of understanding (MoUs) for cooperation in trade, defence, food security, critical minerals and maritime security.
In defence, discussions have progressed for the supply of the supersonic cruise missile BrahMos to Indonesia. Indian Ambassador to Indonesia Sandeep Chakravorty stated that both sides hope to finalise certain agreements related to BrahMos during the visit. “India's defence and security cooperation has seen increased momentum and expanding scope through high-level visits, regular bilateral and multilateral exercises and deeper defence industry cooperation, including the sale of BrahMos. India will also be earmarking slots for Indonesian cadets and officers in NDA which will enhance defence capacity building,” said a source.
Critical minerals emerged as another key area of cooperation. Indonesia holds about 21% of the world's nickel reserves and is among the top global producers of copper, bauxite and tin. The two countries are expected to enhance collaboration in this sector.
Modi and Prabowo will also visit the Prambanan Temple Complex, the largest temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva in Indonesia. India is assisting Indonesia with restoration work at the site. “India and Indonesia share strong civilisational and people-to-people ties and my visit will further deepen all aspects of our multifaceted partnership,” Modi said. He will also address a diaspora event. India plans to commemorate the centenary of Rabindranath Tagore's visit to Indonesia in 2027.
After Indonesia, Modi will travel to Australia for a visit that a source described as geopolitically significant. “It will further cement ties between two QUAD partners who are playing greater roles in the Indo-Pacific, bringing new opportunities and prosperity for people and countries, especially the Small Island Developing States,” the source said, speaking anonymously. Modi said the Australia visit will enhance relations in defence, security, trade, investments, education, mobility and people-to-people ties. He will interact with the Indian diaspora in Melbourne, which he called an important pillar of the strategic partnership.
