New Delhi: During the state visit of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to India, five Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed across various fields, including health, traditional medicine, and maritime security. The visit underscored the growing strategic and cultural ties between the two nations.
Key MoUs Signed
- Health Cooperation:
An MoU was signed between India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and Indonesia’s Ministry of Health, aiming to enhance collaboration in healthcare services, disease control, and health research. - Maritime Security Renewal:
The Indian Coast Guard and BAKAMLA (Indonesian Maritime Security Agency) renewed their agreement to strengthen maritime safety and security, highlighting their shared commitment to the Indo-Pacific region. - Traditional Medicine Quality Assurance:
A partnership was formalized between India’s Pharmacopoeia Commission for Indian Medicine and Homeopathy (under the Ministry of AYUSH) and the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority. This agreement focuses on standardizing and promoting traditional medicine systems. - Digital Development Cooperation:
The Union Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology of India signed an MoU with Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs to bolster collaboration in digital innovation, technology, and cybersecurity. - Cultural Exchange Program (2025–2028):
An agreement between the Ministries of Culture of both countries promotes cultural exchange programs over the next three years, fostering greater people-to-people connections.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
In a meeting at Hyderabad House, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Prabowo Subianto reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, focusing on:
- Defence and Security: Enhanced military cooperation to address regional security concerns.
- Maritime Domain: Collaboration in securing vital trade routes and ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific.
- Economic and Cultural Ties: Expanding trade and cultural initiatives to deepen bilateral relations.
Indonesia’s Participation in Republic Day Celebrations
President Prabowo Subianto served as the Chief Guest at India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations on Kartavya Path. Marking the occasion, Indonesia’s Genderang Suling Canka Lokananta, a 190-member military academy band, performed. Their ensemble symbolized discipline, honour, and shared military traditions, reflecting the historic friendship between the nations.
This visit further solidifies India-Indonesia relations, particularly in health, traditional medicine, maritime security, and cultural exchange, while reaffirming their shared vision for regional stability and prosperity.
