India, Australia Supercharge Ties with New Security and Tech Pacts

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese concluded the third Australia‑India Annual Leaders’ Summit in Melbourne, marking a major milestone in the six‑year Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

The summit produced a landmark suite of agreements designed to reinforce Indo‑Pacific security, secure critical mineral supply chains and accelerate clean energy transition.

Central to the summit was the release of a new Joint Declaration on Defence and Security Cooperation. This declaration replaces the 2009 security pact and significantly deepens military integration. Prime Minister Albanese described India as a “top‑tier security partner” and emphasised that the declaration reflects a shared commitment to a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo‑Pacific.

He confirmed that both nations will boost strategic coordination, increase the complexity of defence exercises and further build interoperability between their armed forces.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted the practical implications of this shift, announcing the creation of an India‑Australia Defence Innovation Corridor. He explained that this corridor will connect defence startups and industries, fostering joint research and production. He also noted that the new maritime security collaboration roadmap will infuse strength into shared efforts in the Indo‑Pacific.

Another breakthrough was the finalisation of administrative arrangements required to implement the 2015 Australia‑India Nuclear Cooperation Agreement. This step paves the way for Australian uranium exports to India, exclusively for peaceful, IAEA‑safeguarded civil nuclear energy programs.

Prime Minister Albanese stated that the arrangement will help increase the share of non‑fossil fuel power capacity in India while providing an additional market for Australia’s resources sector. Prime Minister Modi added that the agreement would give India’s clean energy objectives fresh momentum as the country seeks to scale nuclear baseload capacity by 2047.

The leaders also unveiled the Australia‑India Partnership on Cyber, Critical Technologies and Supply Chains (PACTS). This pact aims to establish a “critical minerals corridor” essential for strategic security and clean energy transitions.

Complementing this initiative is a new Memorandum of Understanding between Geoscience Australia and the Geological Survey of India. The partnership will map and uncover new deposits, securing supply chains necessary for global clean energy and high‑tech manufacturing.

Amid rising regional tensions, the summit reaffirmed both nations’ commitment to a free, open and prosperous Indo‑Pacific. A new Joint Maritime Security Collaboration Roadmap was endorsed to enhance information sharing and operational coordination between the Indian Coast Guard and Australia’s Maritime Border Command.

The leaders also issued a strong warning against terrorism, with Prime Minister Modi declaring that terrorism is a challenge for all humanity and that India and Australia’s resolve to fight it is unbreakable.

A major highlight was the agreement to commission a temporary space tracking terminal on the Cocos (Keeling) Islands. This facility will support India’s landmark Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme by providing essential telemetry tracking for upcoming crewed missions. Prime Minister Albanese confirmed that this step reflects the expansion of cooperation in science and technology.

Beyond high‑level policy, the summit emphasised the “living bridge” of the Indian diaspora and strong people‑to‑people links. Prime Minister Modi likened the bilateral relationship to a game of cricket, underscoring the cultural warmth between the two nations.

In a gesture of goodwill, the leaders announced the repatriation of an Australian First Nations ancestor held in the Government Museum of Chennai, alongside the return of cultural items from Australian galleries to India.

The Prime Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to finalising the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA). Both leaders expressed a desire for an ambitious, balanced and win‑win deal that would build upon the success of the 2022

Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement. Prime Minister Modi concluded by stating that the India‑Australia partnership is not just for the present but also for the future, and he invited Prime Minister Albanese to return to India for further consultations.

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Mr India Dominates Australian Press As Landmark Visit Seals Uranium Deal And Economic Partnership

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s landmark visit to Australia has continued to dominate headlines across the country, with major newspapers giving extensive coverage to his engagements with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

The Australian newspaper led the charge, dedicating its front page to the visit under the headline, “Modi comes bearing gifts on trade, defence.” A columnist in the same publication hailed him as “Mr India,” reflecting the scale of attention his presence commanded.

The Age also placed the visit prominently on its front page, running the bold headline, “Albanese’s Modi Operandi.” This widespread editorial spotlight underscored the unprecedented media momentum generated by the bilateral talks, which were framed as a major diplomatic and media event in Australia.

Beyond the headlines, the visit delivered substantial strategic outcomes. India and Australia announced deeper cooperation in uranium exports, renewable energy, critical minerals, and green hydrogen.

A landmark agreement was reached to allow Australian uranium exports to India for peaceful nuclear energy use. This deal is expected to support India’s ambitious plans to expand its nuclear energy capacity, while simultaneously opening a new market for Australia’s resources sector.

Prime Minister Albanese emphasised the closeness of the partnership, declaring, “Australia and India are close partners and even closer friends.” Prime Minister Modi described the collaboration as offering “historic opportunities,” encouraging Australian businesses to invest in India’s infrastructure, including roads, ports, and rail projects. His remarks highlighted the economic vision underpinning the strategic partnership.

The corporate sector responded swiftly to the diplomatic warmth. Australia’s largest pension fund, AustralianSuper, announced an additional investment of 500 million Australian Dollars into India’s National Investment and Infrastructure Fund. This financial commitment illustrated the growing confidence in India’s economic trajectory and the alignment of interests between the two democracies.

The cultural and emotional dimension of the partnership was equally visible. Prime Minister Albanese described Modi as a “living bridge” between Australia and India, crediting his leadership with reshaping economic ties. Modi’s outreach to the Indian diaspora in Melbourne reinforced this sentiment. 

Thousands of expatriates welcomed him with chants of “Modi, Modi” at a packed gathering, showcasing the depth of people-to-people connections. Modi reflected on the journey of bilateral relations, noting that his third visit to Australia as Prime Minister symbolised the growing strength of ties between the two nations.

The visit concluded with Modi departing for New Zealand, marking the next leg of his diplomatic tour before returning to India. From an Indian perspective, the engagements in Melbourne have cemented a new phase in the strategic partnership, combining energy security, infrastructure investment, and diaspora outreach with a strong geopolitical vision for the Indo-Pacific.

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PM Modi Draws Record 30,000 Diaspora Gathering In Melbourne Amid Landmark Australia Summit

Around thirty thousand people gathered in Melbourne to hear Prime Minister Narendra Modi address the Indian diaspora at a community event. The turnout was described as perhaps the largest such gathering ever in Australia for any leader, underscoring the scale of enthusiasm among the Indian community.

Ahead of the Prime Minister’s arrival, members of the diaspora showcased their excitement through a vibrant cultural performance. Madan Palsule, one of the performers, explained that they were presenting a drama based on the life of Shivaji, adding that Modi’s dynamic and charismatic leadership inspired them.

Another member of the diaspora expressed joy at welcoming Modi, noting that despite living abroad, they continue to listen to Indian leaders and hope such visits remain frequent.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi concluded a high‑level summit with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Melbourne.

The meeting marked a significant expansion of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, resulting in eighteen landmark outcomes across defence, energy, critical technology and trade. Modi hailed the discussions as “unparalleled outcomes” across multiple sectors.

He reflected on the decision to accelerate the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement, emphasising that the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership launched in 2022 has steadily broadened cooperation. Modi stated that the CECA would be balanced, ambitious and beneficial for both nations, adding that talks focused on invigorating trade and investment linkages.

The Prime Minister highlighted momentum achieved in renewable energy, climate action, nuclear energy, critical minerals, technology and education.

He noted that the summit produced a declaration to strengthen defence and security cooperation, while also advancing collaboration in shipbuilding, repair and maintenance.

Modi’s visit to Australia from 8–10 July culminated in eighteen major outcomes spanning defence, maritime security, energy, critical technologies, education, mining, research and cultural cooperation. 

The expansion of the India‑Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership reflects the growing depth of bilateral ties, with the diaspora’s role in enriching cultural exchanges adding further strength to the relationship.

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Australian PM Albanese Calls Indian Diaspora The Living Bridge Strengthening Australia-India Partnership

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has hailed the Indian diaspora as the “living bridge” between Australia and India, emphasising that the energy and enthusiasm witnessed at the community event in Melbourne welcoming Prime Minister Narendra Modi reflected the growing strength of the bilateral partnership.

Addressing thousands of members of the Indian community in the presence of Prime Minister Modi, Albanese described him as “a true friend of Australia” and said it was an honour to host him in Melbourne.

He noted that the atmosphere inside the packed stadium symbolised the dynamism of India-Australia ties. Albanese remarked that the energy felt during the event defined the partnership, driven by enthusiasm and dynamism that underpin the positivity and promise of both nations and their peoples. 

He fondly recalled his visits to India, particularly the lap of Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium in a chariot during Modi’s hosting three years ago, calling it an unforgettable experience.

The Australian Prime Minister said the warmth and affection he experienced in Gujarat was equally visible at the Melbourne gathering. He stressed that the depth of affection between the two peoples was palpable and present among the crowd.

Recalling his first visit to India as a backpacker in 1991, Albanese said travelling across the country helped him understand its diversity and hospitality. He shared that he learned a simple truth: “If you want to understand India, get on a train,” highlighting how he was welcomed into homes and experienced the richness of Indian culture.

Albanese described India and Australia as “two great democracies” and “two great multicultural societies,” underpinned by shared values and strong people-to-people ties. He paid tribute to the more than one million Australians of Indian origin, acknowledging their contribution to strengthening Australia’s economy, society, and multicultural identity.

He praised their generosity of spirit, noting that in times of trouble or national crisis, the Indian community is often the first to volunteer and lend a hand.

He further highlighted the diaspora’s role in boosting skills in critical industries such as healthcare and IT, growing Australia’s small business sector, and contributing to education through Indian students choosing Australia as their destination.

He emphasised that this was particularly significant in Victoria, the education state. Albanese also pointed to the expanding educational partnership between the two countries, recalling that Deakin University from Victoria became the first foreign university to establish a campus in India, paving the way for deeper academic collaboration.

Concluding his address, Albanese said Australians had been enriched by the cultural and economic contributions of the Indian community.

He declared, “We are a better nation because we have you in it. You are the living bridge between Australia and India.”

His remarks came as Prime Minister Modi continued his three-day visit to Australia, which has already produced major outcomes across defence, maritime security, energy, critical technologies, education, mining, research, and cultural cooperation, significantly expanding the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations.

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PM Modi Hails Peak Ties on Third Australia Visit in 12 Years Says 'Ties Have Reached Great Heights'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his third visit to Australia in twelve years, declared that ties between India and Australia have reached great heights, attributing much of this progress to the Indian diaspora.

Speaking at a community event in Melbourne, he emphasised that the daily lives of the diaspora keep them connected to India while simultaneously contributing to Australia’s development.

He recalled his 2014 visit, noting it was the first by an Indian Prime Minister in twenty‑eight years. At that time, he had promised the community they would not have to wait another twenty‑eight years.

His current visit marks a hat‑trick in twelve years, which he said demonstrates the strength of the bilateral relationship. He stressed that the diaspora, rather than himself, had played the biggest role in this achievement.

The Prime Minister began his address by acknowledging the traditional owners of the land and paying respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging. He described the event as “houseful” and “a blockbuster,” recalling his previous meetings with the diaspora in Sydney and expressing his delight at finally meeting the people of Melbourne. He joked that he wanted to share a flat white coffee with them.

Modi spoke of the deep connect the diaspora maintains with India. He illustrated how many households manage two time zones, with children returning from school in Australia while grandparents in India wait to connect via video call.

He mentioned weddings streamed live from India during weekends in Australia, highlighting how cultural bonds remain strong. He praised the diaspora for contributing vigorously to Australia’s development, likening Indians to sugar dissolving in milk, making it sweeter.

He said Indians infuse the world with love, noting that while milk may be Australian, the tea brewed is Indian, and Australian vegetables are tempered with authentic Indian spices.

He remarked that Melbourne is known for offering all four seasons in a single day, but the Indian community has made the city even more vibrant with its cultural hues. He pointed out that many markets and areas are infused with Indianness, often referred to as “Little India” or “Mini India.” He mentioned a video he had seen of one such market where sales are constant, and people get swept up in the excitement, joking in Hindi that “Sale ke chakkar mein log ghanchakkar ban jate hain.”

Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan addressed the gathering, describing India as “a country we trust” and emphasising the deep people‑to‑people ties between India and Victoria. She said the Indian community is part of Victoria’s identity and welcomed Indian students, businesses, families and ideas. She urged Modi to take back the message that Victoria respects and values India and its people.

Highlighting the growing strategic and economic relationship, Allan said India is not merely a trading partner but a trusted country. Her remarks underscored Victoria’s commitment to strengthening ties with India across multiple domains.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also addressed the event, stating that the energy felt in the gathering defined the Australia‑India partnership. He said the enthusiasm and dynamism of the diaspora drive the positivity and promise of the two nations and peoples.

Modi’s visit comes at a time when India and Australia are expanding cooperation in defence, critical minerals, education, renewable energy and technology. The diaspora’s role in enriching cultural and economic exchanges continues to be recognised as a vital element of this partnership.

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PM Modi Calls For Stronger India‑Australia Partnership Amid Global Challenges

Prime Minister Narendra Modi joined Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the India‑Australia CEO Forum and Economic Roadmap Business Reception in Melbourne, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral trade and strategic relations during the second leg of his three‑nation tour.

In his address, Modi emphasised that the gathering was a symbol of shared confidence and aspirations. He noted that the world is currently facing uncertainty, supply chain disruptions and an energy crisis. 

Against this backdrop, he stressed that India and Australia must advance as natural and trusted partners. He highlighted that in recent years both countries have built a strong framework for future cooperation by combining their respective capabilities.

The Prime Minister arrived in Australia on Wednesday after concluding his visit to Indonesia. He was welcomed with a grand reception by the Indian diaspora in Melbourne, underscoring the strong community ties between the two nations.

The cultural evening accompanying the event showcased vibrant performances that reflected the depth of India‑Australia cultural relations. A highlight was the rendition of Maa Tujhe Salaam by the Australian‑Indian Orchestra.

PM Modi shared a clip of the performance on social media platform X, describing it as “wonderful” and noting that it demonstrated how music strengthens the bond between citizens of both countries.

He remarked that the performance underscored the global appeal of Vande Mataram, especially as India celebrates the 150th anniversary of the historic song.

The Prime Minister also witnessed a unique musical fusion featuring the Australian didgeridoo and the Indian tabla, performed by Ron Murray and Dr Sam Evans. He praised the performance as a reflection of the profound cultural bond between the two nations and lauded the musicians for preserving their traditional art forms.

Additionally, Modi attended a Kathak recital and expressed his satisfaction at seeing the growing footprint of Indian classical dance forms across Australia.

During his three‑day visit, Modi and Albanese are scheduled to hold comprehensive discussions covering defence and security, trade and investment, education, mobility, critical technologies, sports and people‑to‑people relations.

Following his engagements in Australia, Modi will travel to New Zealand for the final leg of his tour.

The visit comes at a time when India‑Australia relations are expanding rapidly, with cooperation in areas such as defence, critical minerals, renewable energy, maritime security and advanced technology. The emphasis on cultural diplomacy alongside strategic dialogue highlights the multidimensional nature of the partnership.

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PM Modi And PM Albanese Meet In Melbourne To Strengthen Trade, Defence And Technology Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Melbourne on Thursday during the second leg of his three-nation tour covering Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand. 

The meeting followed Modi’s arrival in Australia on Wednesday, where he was greeted with a grand reception by the Indian community. The welcome was marked by cultural performances that highlighted the shared heritage between the two nations.

One of the most notable highlights was a performance by the Australian-India Orchestra, which presented the iconic patriotic song Maa Tujhe Salaam. Sharing a video of the performance on X, Prime Minister Modi described it as a soulful presentation that beautifully demonstrated how music strengthens bonds between people.

He complimented every member of the orchestra for their memorable performance and noted how the global popularity of Vande Mataram was particularly significant as India marks its 150th anniversary.

The Prime Minister also witnessed a unique musical collaboration featuring Australia’s ancient Didgeridoo and India’s Tabla. The performance was delivered by didgeridoo artist Ron Murray and tabla maestro Dr Sam Evans.

PM Modi shared his appreciation for the harmony between these two timeless instruments, saying it reflected the deep cultural connect between India and Australia. He praised the artists for their dedication to preserving and celebrating musical traditions.

During the community reception, Modi also enjoyed a Kathak performance. He later shared photographs with the performers on X, expressing delight at seeing Indian classical dance gaining popularity across Australia. He remarked that such performances highlight the growing cultural exchanges between the two countries.

Modi’s arrival in Australia came after the conclusion of his visit to Indonesia, which was the first leg of his three-nation tour. His engagements in Australia are expected to span three days, during which he and Albanese will hold wide-ranging discussions.

The agenda includes strengthening cooperation in defence and security, expanding trade and investment, enhancing education and mobility, and deepening people-to-people ties.

In his departure statement before embarking on the tour, Modi had emphasised that the Australia visit would provide an opportunity to deepen bilateral cooperation in emerging and critical technologies, as well as in sports and sports science. These areas are seen as vital for the future of both nations, particularly in the context of strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific.

After completing his engagements in Australia, Prime Minister Modi will travel to New Zealand, which will mark the final leg of his three-nation visit. His tour underscores India’s growing emphasis on strengthening partnerships across the Indo-Pacific region, with a focus on trade, technology, defence, and cultural diplomacy.

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India, Indonesia Forge Defence Tie-Up Around Great Nicobar and Sabang Port Plans

India and Indonesia held wide-ranging discussions on maritime cooperation during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s State Visit to Jakarta, with the Ministry of External Affairs highlighting the focus on strategic projects such as India’s Great Nicobar Island initiative and Indonesia’s Sabang Port.

These talks were part of a broader agenda to deepen bilateral ties across defence, security, and economic domains.

Secretary (East) in the MEA, Rudrendra Tandon, briefed the media after the summit, noting that maritime cooperation was a central theme in the dialogue between PM Modi and President Prabowo Subianto.

He recalled that during Modi’s 2018 visit, both nations had unveiled a shared maritime vision, and the latest discussions were aimed at advancing that framework. The talks covered mutual maritime domain awareness, connectivity, and enhanced cooperation between the two countries’ Coast Guards.

A significant outcome was Indonesia’s decision to station a liaison officer at the Information Fusion Centre–Indian Ocean Region in Gurugram, India. This step is expected to strengthen maritime security coordination.

Tandon emphasised the geographical closeness of the two nations, pointing out that despite the distance between their capitals, their islands in the Andaman and Nicobar chain and Indonesia are separated by only 150 kilometres, making them natural maritime neighbours.

Both sides expressed interest in strategic infrastructure projects, with Indonesia showing keen interest in India’s Great Nicobar Island project, while India reciprocated by supporting the development of Sabang Port. The Joint Task Force established in 2018 to implement the shared maritime vision has already met twice, and a third meeting is expected later this year. An MoU was also signed to renew cooperation between the Coast Guards of both nations.

The leaders discussed advancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership across six key sectors, beginning with defence. Tandon explained that the focus was on moving beyond military exchanges to collaboration between defence industries. Indian defence firms, which have achieved technological maturity in several areas, are now exploring frameworks for cooperation with Indonesian counterparts. Discussions touched upon shipping, weapons systems, and missile-domain collaboration.

Economic ties were also reviewed, with both sides agreeing that the current bilateral trade volume of USD 25 billion does not reflect the scale of their economies. They set a goal to expand trade, particularly in pharmaceuticals, food processing, digital infrastructure, and innovation ecosystems. 

Healthcare cooperation was identified as a priority, with India’s reputation as the “pharmacy of the world” complementing Indonesia’s need for affordable, high-quality medicines. This collaboration is expected to enhance access to Indian medical products in Indonesia.

Education and cultural links were another area of focus. Agreements were reached for leading Indian universities to establish campuses in Indonesia, strengthening academic and civilizational ties. The leaders also discussed expanding collaboration between universities and research institutions.

The atmosphere of the visit was described as exceptionally warm. President Prabowo personally received Prime Minister Modi at the airport and attended the Indian community reception, underscoring the closeness of the relationship. Tandon noted that the hospitality and friendship extended to Modi were overwhelming, making the summit distinctive in its cordiality and symbolism.

The discussions and agreements reflect a forward-looking agenda for India and Indonesia, with emphasis on maritime cooperation, defence industry collaboration, economic expansion, healthcare, and education. The visit has reinforced the shared vision of both nations as maritime neighbours and strategic partners in the Indo-Pacific.

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Indian Diaspora In Australia Welcomes PM Modi’s Visit As Boost To Bilateral Ties

Indian community leaders and diaspora members in Australia have expressed optimism that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ongoing visit will further consolidate bilateral relations, expand business opportunities and deepen cultural exchanges between the two nations.

His engagements in Melbourne are being seen as a pivotal moment in advancing the India‑Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Shivraj Singh, proprietor of Melbourne’s Gaylord Indian restaurant, emphasised that the Prime Minister’s presence would positively influence ties between the two countries. He noted that Indian food and culture are increasingly popular in Australia and highlighted how India’s global stature has risen since Modi assumed office.

Anou Khanijou McPherson, President of the Australia India Society of Victoria, described the visit as a significant opportunity to strengthen cooperation. She pointed out that this is Modi’s third visit to Australia, which she believes reflects the importance of the relationship.

She underlined the Prime Minister’s scheduled participation in the India‑Australia CEOs Forum and stressed that both countries possess complementary strengths, with India’s manufacturing capacity and Australia’s design and intellectual property offering scope for collaboration.

Educator and artist Madhu Khanna expressed her delight at the Prime Minister’s arrival, recalling the impact of his earlier visits. She explained how Indian art forms such as Rangoli, Warli and Lippan are being taught to Australians, including children and artists, and incorporated into public art projects. She said this growing interest elevates India’s cultural reputation abroad.

Queensland‑based doctor Neeraj Khanna described Modi’s visit as a matter of pride for the Indian diaspora, particularly for the medical fraternity.

He recalled the Prime Minister’s 2014 visit when he inaugurated the Gandhi statue in Brisbane, noting that the vision expressed then continues to inspire. He travelled from Brisbane to Melbourne to witness Modi’s engagements and hear his vision once again.

Prime Minister Modi is currently on a three‑nation tour covering Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand from 6 to 11 July. In his departure statement, he said his discussions with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese would focus on defence and security, trade and investment, education, mobility and people‑to‑people ties, thereby strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

The diaspora’s enthusiasm reflects the broader momentum in India‑Australia relations, which have expanded significantly in recent years through cooperation in defence, critical minerals, technology, renewable energy and maritime security.

PM Modi’s visit is expected to reinforce these areas while also celebrating the vibrant Indian community that has become one of the fastest‑growing migrant groups in Australia.

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India And Indonesia Strengthen Comprehensive Strategic Partnership With Defence, Trade And Maritime Cooperation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Indonesia from 6 to 8 July 2026 marked a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship, as both nations reaffirmed their commitment to deepening their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

The visit followed Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s earlier participation as Chief Guest at India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations in January 2025, underscoring the continuity of high-level exchanges. The leaders agreed to hold regular summit meetings, including on the sidelines of multilateral events, and to strengthen existing dialogue mechanisms.

During the visit, Prime Minister Modi and President Prabowo held wide-ranging talks in Jakarta, covering political, defence, economic, technological and regional cooperation. Several agreements were exchanged, and Prime Minister Modi addressed the Indonesian Parliament.

He also inaugurated restoration work at the UNESCO World Heritage Prambanan Temple Compounds in Yogyakarta alongside President Prabowo and attended a reception hosted by the Indian community.

Defence and maritime cooperation featured prominently. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding defence ties through regular dialogues, joint military exercises, staff talks, defence research, co-production of new technologies, hydrography, peacekeeping, information sharing and defence industrial collaboration.

They welcomed the elevation of defence cooperation through collaboration on the BrahMos missile system and the Air-to-Air Missile Cooperation Agreement. Maritime cooperation was also strengthened, with agreements on domain awareness, coastal surveillance, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, pollution control and search and rescue.

The renewal of the MoU on Maritime Safety and Security Cooperation and the implementing arrangement between Indonesia’s BAKAMLA and the Indian Coast Guard were welcomed, along with Indonesia’s deployment of an International Liaison Officer at the Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region in Gurugram.

On counter-terrorism, both leaders unequivocally condemned terrorism in all forms and called for decisive international efforts to combat it. They urged action against globally proscribed terrorists and entities listed by the UN Security Council’s 1267 Sanctions Committee. Cooperation will be strengthened in counter-terrorism, countering terror financing, cyber security, organised crime and preventing misuse of emerging technologies by terrorists.

Economic cooperation was highlighted as a key pillar. The leaders emphasised the need for an early conclusion of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement review. Agreements were signed on minerals and steel supply chains, including a strategic joint venture between Steel Authority of India Limited and PT Krakatau Steel to explore establishing a stainless-steel slab manufacturing facility in Indonesia.

Progress was noted on local currency transactions between the Reserve Bank of India and Bank Indonesia to facilitate trade and investment. Cooperation was reaffirmed in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, food security, energy and fertilisers, with agreements on professional health workforce development and medical products regulation. Collaboration will also expand in renewable energy, green hydrogen, LNG, bioenergy and energy efficiency.

Connectivity was another focus. Both countries agreed to improve maritime and air connectivity, welcomed India’s interest in partnering in the integrated development of Sabang Port and noted its potential to strengthen links between India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Indonesia’s Sumatra region. Indonesia’s Open Network initiative based on India’s ONDC architecture was welcomed, alongside progress on cross-border QR payment linkage and an MoU on telecommunications technologies and services.

Science, technology and space cooperation was reaffirmed, with continued collaboration between ISRO and Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency, extension of the framework agreement on peaceful uses of outer space and collaboration on India’s Gaganyaan mission. Indonesia welcomed India’s support for satellite launches and space ecosystem cooperation, including a proposed spaceport project in Indonesia.

Cultural diplomacy was also advanced. PM Modi and President Prabowo inaugurated the India-supported restoration of the Prambanan Temple Compounds. Both sides agreed to commemorate 2026-27 as the “Tagore-Dewantara Year of India-Indonesia Cultural and Educational Diplomacy” to mark the centenary of Rabindranath Tagore’s 1927 visit to Indonesia.

In higher education, the proposed establishment of an Indian Institute of Management Bangalore campus in Indonesia was welcomed, along with greater academic exchanges and institutional partnerships. Cooperation between the Election Commission of India and Indonesia’s General Election Commission was also encouraged, as was collaboration in official statistics.

On global and regional issues, both leaders reaffirmed support for UN Security Council reforms, a stronger voice for the Global South and a rules-based international order. Indonesia reiterated support for India’s BRICS Chairship in 2026, while India pledged support for Indonesia’s role as a BRICS member.

Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open, transparent, rules-based and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, stressing respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, international law and freedom of navigation under UNCLOS.

They expressed concern over the situation in West Asia, welcomed the MoU signed on 17 June 2026 calling for de-escalation through dialogue and diplomacy, and underlined the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

Prime Minister Modi thanked President Prabowo for the warm hospitality and invited him to visit India at a mutually convenient time.

Members of the Indian diaspora hailed the visit, describing the environment as historic and praising the speeches of both leaders. One attendee noted the signing of many MoUs that would strengthen relations, while a younger member appreciated the humour and warmth in President Prabowo’s speech.

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India And Indonesia Sign BrahMos And Astra Deal, Usher In Golden Chapter of Strategic Partnership

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Indonesia has marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations, with the signing of more than eight agreements across defence, technology, health, education, and cultural cooperation.

The centrepiece of these accords was the long-anticipated BrahMos missile deal, which firmly positions Indonesia as a key partner in India’s expanding coastal missile deployment network across Southeast Asia.

Alongside this, India agreed to supply ASTRA air-to-air missile systems under a new arrangement between Bharat Dynamics and Indonesia’s Republic Corps, further strengthening defence interoperability.

The agreements extended well beyond defence. A framework on maritime safety and security was finalised, reflecting the shared priority of safeguarding sea lanes in the Indo-Pacific. India and Indonesia also signed an agreement on critical minerals and technologies for the steel supply chain, with Prime Minister Modi highlighting the importance of resilient supply chains in stainless steel and rare-earth magnets. India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) will be integrated with Indonesia’s payment system, boosting ease of travel and business transactions.

Cooperation in disaster management, health workforce collaboration, and conservation of the UNESCO-listed Prambanan Temple complex were also agreed upon. In the health sector, India’s Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation and Indonesia’s National Agency of Drug and Food Control signed a pact to harmonise regulatory standards, enabling greater access for Indian medical products in Indonesia.

PM Modi emphasised that this would make high-quality and affordable Indian medicines more available to Indonesian citizens while also contributing to capacity building for Indonesian doctors and healthcare workers.

Education and cultural ties received a major boost with the announcement of an overseas campus of the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore in East Java’s Singhasari Special Economic Zone. Modi noted that this initiative would benefit young people across the ASEAN region, strengthening academic and professional linkages.

Democratic cooperation was also expanded through a Memorandum of Understanding between the Election Commissions of both nations, alongside agreements in agriculture, telecommunications, medical regulation, and election management technologies.

Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto conferred the nation’s highest civilian honour, the Bintang Adipurna of the Republic of Indonesia, upon Prime Minister Modi, underscoring the personal chemistry between the two leaders and the depth of the partnership. Modi, in his joint press statement, declared that a “golden chapter” of India-Indonesia relations had begun, spanning development, security, technology, culture, and education, with far-reaching implications for the 21st century.

The visit also included Modi’s address to Indonesia’s parliament and an engagement with the Indian diaspora in Jakarta. He is expected to visit the Prambanan Temple before concluding his trip. This engagement builds upon his recent strategic outreach in the Indian Ocean region, including strengthened ties with Seychelles and Mauritius, and his hosting of Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in New Delhi.

The ongoing multi-nation tour, which includes Australia and New Zealand, is firmly aligned with India’s Act East Policy and the MAHASAGAR Vision, reinforcing New Delhi’s commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

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Indonesia Visit Delivers Comprehensive Gains' Says Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday declared that his official visit to Indonesia had produced comprehensive and forward-looking outcomes.

He emphasised that the engagements held with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at Merdeka Palace in Jakarta had imparted fresh momentum and deeper scope to the bilateral relationship.

In a statement shared on X, the Prime Minister noted that he had conducted a productive discussion with President Subianto. He explained that the talks had spanned a wide range of areas including trade, human resource development, agriculture, food security, and health services.

He underlined that defence, security, and maritime cooperation were also central to the dialogue, given the strategic role of both nations as major maritime powers in the Indo-Pacific.

Looking ahead, Modi confirmed that both sides had agreed to intensify collaboration in advanced fields such as space exploration, telecommunications, artificial intelligence, Public Digital Infrastructure, and other emerging digital technologies.

He described the outcome of the visit as comprehensive, substantive, and forward-looking, stressing that the friendship between India and Indonesia would continue to reach higher levels in the years ahead.

Earlier in the day, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto conferred upon Prime Minister Modi the ‘Bintang Adipurna of the Republic of Indonesia’ Medal of Honour.

This decoration, the highest civilian award of Indonesia, was presented in recognition of Modi’s leadership in strengthening bilateral friendship and advancing unity, continuity, and prosperity in Indonesia. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the award and highlighted its symbolic significance.

Prime Minister Modi dedicated the honour to the people of India, describing it as a tribute to the enduring bonds of friendship between the two nations.

MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated on X that the award was a testament to the India-Indonesia partnership and the respect accorded to Modi’s leadership in nurturing it.

President Subianto personally bestowed the medal upon Modi, underscoring his crucial role in consolidating the partnership. The ceremony added a symbolic dimension to the visit, complementing the substantive outcomes achieved during the bilateral discussions.

The engagements in Jakarta form part of Modi’s wider three-nation diplomatic tour, which will also take him to Australia and New Zealand.

The Indonesian leg of the visit has already been marked by high-level exchanges, strategic agreements, and the conferment of Indonesia’s highest honour, collectively reinforcing the trajectory of India-Indonesia relations.

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Prime Minister Modi Conferred With Indonesia’s Highest Civilian Honour

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Indonesia’s highest civilian honour, the ‘Bintang Adipurna of the Republic of Indonesia’, by President Prabowo Subianto in Jakarta.

The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that the award was bestowed in recognition of Modi’s leadership in strengthening the friendship between India and Indonesia.

The medal, also known as the Star of Indonesia, symbolises unity, continuity, and prosperity, and reflects the enduring partnership between the two nations.

Prime Minister Modi dedicated the honour to the people of India. In a post on X, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal described the award as a tribute to India‑Indonesia friendship, noting that it was conferred with great respect and affection.

He emphasised that the recognition was not only for Modi’s leadership but also for the collective bonds of friendship between the two democracies.

During a joint press meet with President Prabowo, Modi expressed his deep gratitude, stating that the honour belonged to the crores of Indians.

He highlighted that the award reflected the sentiments of the Indonesian people and the historic, deep‑rooted ties between the two nations. Modi extended his heartfelt thanks to President Prabowo, the Government of Indonesia, and the Indonesian people for the gesture.

The Prime Minister underlined that a golden era beckons both nations. He stressed that in times of global turbulence, dialogue and diplomacy have become more critical than ever. Addressing the issue of Palestine, Modi reiterated India’s support for a two‑state solution and long‑term peace.

He noted that India and Indonesia share a common culture in history, mutual trust in the present, and a vision of shared prosperity in the future.

Modi expressed confidence that together the two nations would realise the visions of ‘Indonesia Emas’ (Golden Indonesia) and a developed India. His remarks underscored the strategic depth of the partnership, which continues to expand across defence, education, technology, and cultural cooperation.

The conferral of the Bintang Adipurna medal marks a historic moment in India‑Indonesia relations, symbolising not only recognition of Modi’s leadership but also the strengthening of bilateral ties at a time when both nations are navigating complex global challenges.

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Indonesian President’s Open Praise For PM Modi Says 'I Follow Your Career, Copied Your Programs' Highlights Deepening Strategic Partnership

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s candid remarks during a banquet lunch in Jakarta added a strikingly personal dimension to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit.

In a moment that drew smiles from dignitaries, President Subianto openly acknowledged his admiration for India’s developmental trajectory and stated that he had consciously adopted several of Modi’s programs.

"I follow your career, copied your programs": Indonesian President made candid praise for PM Modi as it steals the show in Jakarta.

He emphasised that India’s success in tackling challenges similar to those faced by Indonesia—such as a large population, agricultural dependence, and frequent natural disasters—had inspired him to replicate these initiatives. He remarked that he was unafraid to admit this, noting that India’s achievements had already begun to deliver tangible progress in Indonesia.

The Indonesian leader further explained that these adapted strategies were proving successful, adding humorously that he was grateful there was no copyright on India’s programmes. He revealed that a delegation from Jakarta had recently returned from an intensive study tour in India, focusing on agricultural innovations such as permaculture, which transforms arid land into arable terrain. He stressed that Indonesia had much to learn from India’s experience and was committed to embracing these lessons.

The banquet also became the setting for major announcements that underscored the deepening of bilateral ties. Prime Minister Modi and President Subianto unveiled a Memorandum of Understanding on BrahMos-Astra missiles, signalling a significant step forward in defence cooperation.

In parallel, New Delhi confirmed plans to establish campuses of the Indian Institute of Technology and the Indian Institute of Management in Indonesia, marking a historic expansion of India’s educational footprint in Southeast Asia.

These developments were accompanied by a broader exchange of MoUs covering critical sectors such as space exploration, critical minerals, technology, disaster management, medical product regulation, agriculture, and maritime safety.

PM Modi highlighted agreements to strengthen collaboration in technology, artificial intelligence, and start-up ecosystems, announcing that the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore would open a campus in Indonesia. Both nations also agreed to integrate their cross-border QR payment systems, easing financial transactions and boosting economic connectivity.

Cultural cooperation was also placed firmly on the agenda, with both democracies pledging to work together on the preservation and conservation of the UNESCO-listed Prambanan Temple Complex in Yogyakarta. This initiative reflects the civilizational ties that underpin the modern strategic partnership.

In a symbolic gesture of recognition, Indonesia conferred its highest civilian honour, the ‘Bintang Adipurna’ medal, upon Prime Minister Modi. Expressing gratitude, Modi stated that the respect embodied in the award was for every Indian, and he thanked Indonesia on behalf of the nation.

The Prime Minister’s visit, spanning from 6 to 8 July, represents the inaugural leg of his three-nation diplomatic tour that will also take him to Australia and New Zealand. It is his first bilateral visit to Indonesia since the elevation of ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2018.

The current engagement builds upon the momentum of President Subianto’s state visit to India in January 2025, when he was accorded the honour of being Chief Guest at the Republic Day celebrations.

Before departing New Delhi, Modi had underscored the strategic importance of the visit, describing it as a means to further deepen the multifaceted partnership between India and Indonesia. The banquet exchange, punctuated by Subianto’s candid praise, has now added a distinctly personal and symbolic layer to this evolving relationship.

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India And Indonesia Unite Against Terrorism, Modi Calls For UNSC Reform

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday emphasised that India and Indonesia share a common and unwavering vision against terrorism, expressing gratitude to the Indonesian leadership for its solidarity during the Pahalgam terror attack.

Speaking at the joint session of the Indonesian Parliament, Kompleks Parlemen Republik Indonesia, he highlighted the shared determination of both nations to confront extremist threats and strengthen global pacifist forces.

He recalled Indonesia’s firm support during the Pahalgam attack, thanking President Prabowo Subianto and the Indonesian Parliament for standing with India in that moment of crisis. He underlined that both countries are working closely through the Joint Working Group mechanism to counter terrorism, focusing on intelligence cooperation, cyber threats, terror financing and deradicalisation.

By enhancing collaboration in these areas, he said, India and Indonesia can reinforce peace and stability worldwide.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed India’s commitment to a free, open and inclusive Indo‑Pacific, stressing the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation in the region. He noted that the global order is evolving rapidly, and countries like India and Indonesia must have equal participation and a significant role in shaping it. He declared that reform of the United Nations Security Council can no longer be delayed, insisting that the institution must reflect contemporary geopolitical realities.

In his remarks, Modi also reflected on the historical ties between the two nations. He recalled that both India and Indonesia gained independence around the same time, in 1945 and 1947 respectively. He paid tribute to India’s support for Indonesia’s independence movement at the United Nations, citing the role of Biju Patnaik, who courageously brought Prime Minister Sutan Sjahrir and Vice President Mohammad Hatta to India, thereby strengthening the bond between the two countries.

Prime Minister Modi is currently on a three‑day visit to Indonesia. Earlier in the day, he held wide‑ranging talks with President Prabowo Subianto, reviewing the entire spectrum of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Their discussions encompassed trade and investment, defence and security, maritime cooperation, digital and financial technology, energy, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, space, critical minerals and rare earths, culture, tourism, agriculture and people‑to‑people exchanges.

The leaders welcomed the launch of the Indonesia Open Network (ION), modelled on India’s Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), as a step towards deepening digital economic cooperation. To mark the centenary of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore’s visit to Indonesia in 2027, Modi announced that both nations would jointly celebrate the occasion as “Tagore‑Dewantara Year for Cultural and Educational Diplomacy”, underscoring the enduring cultural and educational ties between the two countries.

This visit and address are seen as pivotal in reinforcing the India‑Indonesia partnership, ensuring that bilateral cooperation remains dynamic and responsive to the evolving regional and global landscape.

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