PM Modi to visit Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand in six-day diplomatic tour starting July 6
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to undertake a six-day visit to Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand beginning July 6, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced on Friday. The tour aims to strengthen ties in the Asia-Pacific region, with a focus on India's Act East policy and maritime security.
MEA Secretary (East) Rudrendra Tandon informed reporters that the visit follows recent engagements with Mauritius, Seychelles, and Japan, and reflects a shift in focus towards the eastern maritime zones of the Indian Ocean. The Prime Minister will hold bilateral talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.
Diaspora engagements have been planned in each country due to significant Indian-origin populations. An estimated 1.4 lakh people of Indian origin reside in Indonesia, 9.7 lakh in Australia, and about 3 lakh in New Zealand.
In Australia, PM Modi will land in Melbourne on July 8 to participate in the third India-Australia Annual Summit. He is also expected to meet leaders from top Australian companies and visit the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The second Annual Summit was held in November 2024 on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro. Defence cooperation and emerging areas such as critical minerals, cybersecurity, supply chain resilience, and emerging technologies will be discussed. Australia is a member of the Quad grouping along with India, Japan, and the United States, which advocates for a peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific region based on international law.
During the Indonesia leg, PM Modi's main engagements will be in Jakarta, and he will also visit the historical Prambanan Temple complex in Yogyakarta. India and Indonesia are collaborating on the conservation of this UNESCO World Heritage site. The visit builds on discussions that began when President Prabowo attended India's Republic Day celebrations in January 2025 as Guest of Honour.
The visit to New Zealand marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 40 years. It comes after a free-trade agreement signed between the two countries in April. New Zealand PM Luxon described the visit as historic and said it reflects growing momentum in bilateral relations. Discussions will cover trade, investment, maritime security, education, technology, tourism, sport, and global issues.
PM Luxon stated: 'This visit is about celebrating a winning partnership between New Zealand and India — one that delivers for our people and supports greater prosperity and security for both our countries. I look forward to welcoming Prime Minister Modi to New Zealand.'
