PM Narendra Modi on Tuesday said India believes in prosperity instead of expansionism while addressing the Indonesian Parliament during his three-day visit to the Southeast Asian nation. In his speech, Modi underlined the shared democratic traditions, maritime heritage, and centuries-old cultural ties between India and Indonesia, saying the relationship has continued to deepen with time. PM Modi’s Indonesian Parliament address also focused on strengthening strategic cooperation and promoting peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific region.
PM Modi’s Indonesian Parliament address highlights shared democratic values
According to News 18, PM Modi’s Indonesia Parliament speech centred on India’s vision of inclusive development and cooperation with friendly nations. “India doesn’t believe in expansionism but in prosperity. We believe in, together with all, development for all,” the Prime Minister said while reaffirming New Delhi’s foreign policy priorities.
PM Modi thanked the Indonesian government and its people for the warm welcome extended to him, describing the reception as one of the most memorable moments of his public life. He said the affection shown by Indonesian citizens reflected the close friendship between the two countries.
Speaking about the long-standing relationship, Modi remarked that India and Indonesia have shared historical and cultural links for centuries. He also drew applause from lawmakers by saying there could be no copyright on the friendship between the two nations.
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Maritime cooperation remains central to India-Indonesia partnership
According to News 18, PM Modi’s Indonesian Parliament address also emphasised the importance of maritime cooperation between the two countries. Modi said the sea has always connected India and Indonesia instead of creating distance, making it a vital element of their shared future.
Earlier in the day, Modi held delegation-level talks with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. The leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation in security, democracy, technology, education, and cultural exchanges under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established in 2018.
Among the key announcements was India’s support in developing Indonesia-specific electronic voting machines ahead of the country’s 2029 elections, expanding New Delhi’s electoral cooperation with partner nations.
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India backs ASEAN’s role in the Indo-Pacific
According to News 18, during the PM Modi Indonesia Parliament speech, the Prime Minister reiterated India’s support for ASEAN centrality and said stronger India-Indonesia cooperation would contribute to regional peace, security and economic growth.
He added that democratic values and unity in diversity remain common strengths of both countries and would continue to guide bilateral engagement.
Modi is on a three-day official visit to Indonesia from July 6 to 8 at the invitation of President Prabowo Subianto. During the visit, he received Indonesia’s highest civilian honour, the Bintang Adipurna, recognising his contribution to strengthening bilateral ties.
As India seeks to deepen its engagement with Southeast Asia, the visit is expected to further expand cooperation in strategic, economic and people-to-people sectors.
