Modi in Indonesia: Ramayana, Mahabharata link civilisational ties, calls for stronger Indo-Pacific cooperation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Indonesian Parliament on Tuesday, describing India and Indonesia as civilisational partners bound by shared history, culture, and democratic values. He called for stronger bilateral cooperation, stating that the two nations have the potential to shape the future of the Indo-Pacific and strengthen global faith in democracy.
'When India and Indonesia stand together, they strengthen the world's faith that democracy creates opportunities and trust,' Modi said during his address.
Highlighting historical and cultural links, the Prime Minister said, 'We share a common history. Our relationship is rooted in the heritage of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.' He also mentioned the ancient Nalanda university and the Indonesian monuments Borobudur and Prambanan as symbols of this connection.
Modi emphasised that geography has connected rather than divided the two countries. 'Our capitals may be thousands of kilometres apart, but across the sea, we are separated by only about 150 kilometres. For many countries, the sea has been a source of boundaries and distance. But between India and Indonesia, the sea has never symbolised separation. It has been a bridge connecting us. It is the centre of our shared future.'
He reiterated India's foreign policy approach: 'India is a nation that follows the path not of expansionism, but of development. That is why in India we say, 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' — Together with all, Development for all. It is with this mantra and spirit that I have come before you.'
Modi also said, 'The world will witness history in the making when 140 crore people of India and Indonesia's 29 crore people march together.'
Regarding the reception he received, Modi expressed delight and gratitude. 'The way the people of Indonesia showed me their affection this morning, and the warm welcome they gave me, is something I will never forget. This morning, President Prabowo spoke about copyright. I would like to tell him that no one holds the copyright to this love, this affection, this friendship, and this spirit of respect.'
Earlier, Modi received Indonesia's highest civilian honour, the Bintang Adipurna. Accepting it, he said, 'This honour belongs to the democratic values of both our countries, to our shared heritage, and to the strengthening relations between the two nations.'
Following delegation-level talks between Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, the two countries are expected to sign several agreements to enhance cooperation in defence, trade, and culture.
