Jakarta: In a historic moment reflecting the deepening strategic and cultural ties between New Delhi and Jakarta Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Indonesia’s highest civilian honour on Tuesday. During his state visit Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto presented the prestigious Bintang Adipurna medal to the Indian Prime Minister at the magnificent Istana Merdeka.
The Bintang Republik Indonesia or the Star of the Republic of Indonesia is the highest national order awarded to individuals who demonstrate exceptional dedication to the unity continuity and prosperity of the Indonesian nation. Upon receiving the grand award Prime Minister Modi dedicated the honour to the crores of Indian citizens. He stated that the recognition beautifully reflects the historic and deep rooted civilisational bonds shared by the two maritime neighbours.
Prime Minister Modi arrived in Jakarta on Monday evening marking the first leg of his crucial three nation diplomatic tour across the Indo Pacific region. His arrival featured a grand ceremonial welcome complete with an escort by Indonesian Air Force fighter jets and vibrant traditional cultural performances. This visit holds immense diplomatic weight as it is the very first bilateral engagement between the two nations since they officially elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership back in the year 2018.
Following the grand award ceremony the two top leaders engaged in extensive bilateral and delegation level talks. These crucial discussions successfully culminated in the signing of twenty significant Memorandums of Understanding across various pivotal sectors. The major agreements focus heavily on expanding bilateral defence and maritime security networks. A standout development includes advanced cooperation regarding the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system showcasing the growing global footprint of India’s indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.
Furthermore the comprehensive agreements encompass diverse sectors including outer space exploration critical minerals trade agriculture and healthcare. Highlighting the mutual commitment to education and shared heritage the nations also agreed to establish an Indian Institute of Management Bangalore campus in Indonesia and collaborate on the conservation of the ancient Prambanan Temple Complex in Yogyakarta.
These extensive developments perfectly underscore India’s active Act East Policy and its broader vision for a free open and completely inclusive maritime environment. The successful engagements in Jakarta have essentially cemented a much stronger foundation for future collaboration as Prime Minister Modi prepares to embark on the next crucial phases of his diplomatic journey.