Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Jakarta on Monday at the start of his three-nation visit, with Indonesian Air Force fighter jets escorting his aircraft after it entered Indonesian airspace.

President Prabowo Subianto welcomed him at the airport in what the Indian and foreign media described as a special and rare diplomatic gesture, while a cultural performance was also organised on arrival.

The visit comes as Modi begins the first leg of a tour that will also take him to Australia and New Zealand.

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Diplomacy dons its finest attire

The Indonesian welcome was framed by both sides as a symbol of the depth of the bilateral relationship. The Prime Minister said the visit would strengthen cooperation across multiple sectors and add momentum to long-standing civilisational ties.

Modi said, “During this visit, I will also interact with the Indian diaspora in Indonesia and visit the Prambanan Temple complex at Yogyakarta with President Prabowo, which is another remarkable testament to our close cultural ties,” adding that India and Indonesia share “strong civilisational and people-to-people ties”.

Beyond the fanfare lies the design

Modi’s Jakarta stop marks the launch of a three-nation tour aimed at advancing India’s Act East Policy and regional partnerships, particularly in the Indo-Pacific.

The prime minister said the visits to Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand would also strengthen India’s MAHASAGAR vision, which focuses on regional security, sustainable development and shared prosperity across the region.

This is Modi’s first bilateral visit to Indonesia since the two countries elevated ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership during his 2018 visit.

Prabowo’s January 2025 trip to India as Republic Day chief guest reflected continuing engagement between the two sides.

The itinerary ahead

The Indonesian Air Force escort continued until the aircraft landed in Jakarta. Modi is scheduled to interact with members of the Indian diaspora in Indonesia and visit the Prambanan Temple complex in Yogyakarta with President Prabowo.

After the Indonesia leg, the prime minister is due to travel to Melbourne at the invitation of Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese before concluding the tour in Auckland at the invitation of New Zealand prime minister Christopher Luxon.

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FAQs

Q1: Why was PM Modi’s aircraft escorted by Indonesian fighter jets?

Ans: PM Modi’s aircraft was escorted by Indonesian Air Force fighter jets as a ceremonial gesture of honour during his arrival in Jakarta for an official visit.

Q2: Why is PM Modi visiting Indonesia?

Ans: PM Modi is visiting Indonesia to strengthen bilateral ties, hold talks with President Prabowo Subianto, and deepen cooperation under the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.