Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a significant three-nation tour, commencing with Indonesia, to bolster India's Act East Policy and deepen ties with key Indo-Pacific nations. The visit underscores India's commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.
Arrival in Jakarta
On July 6, 2026, PM Modi arrived in Jakarta, marking the first leg of his tour, which will also include Australia and New Zealand. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto personally welcomed the Prime Minister at the airport, highlighting the importance of this bilateral engagement. A notable gesture during the arrival was the escorting of PM Modi's aircraft by Indonesian Air Force fighter jets upon entering the country's airspace, symbolizing the strong defense ties between the two nations.
Objectives of the Visit
The primary objective of PM Modi's visit is to reinforce India's Act East Policy, which aims to enhance economic, strategic, and cultural relations with Southeast Asian countries. The tour also seeks to advance India's "MAHASAGAR" vision—Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions—and to promote a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
Engagements in Indonesia
During his stay in Indonesia, PM Modi is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with President Subianto, focusing on areas such as trade, defense, technology, and maritime security. The discussions aim to deepen cooperation and address regional security challenges. Additionally, PM Modi plans to visit the Prambanan Temple complex in Yogyakarta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to celebrate the shared cultural heritage between India and Indonesia.
Broader Tour Agenda
Following Indonesia, PM Modi will visit Australia from July 8-10 and New Zealand from July 10-11. The tour is expected to focus on strengthening defense and trade relations, exploring emerging technologies, and enhancing people-to-people connections. This engagement reflects India's strategic interest in the Indo-Pacific region and its commitment to fostering robust partnerships with these nations.
Significance of the Visit
This visit is particularly significant as it marks the first bilateral trip to Indonesia since the elevation of India-Indonesia ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2018. The tour also comes months after President Subianto's visit to India as the chief guest for the Republic Day celebrations on January 26, 2025, reflecting the continued engagement between the two countries.
Through this tour, PM Modi aims to strengthen India's Act East Policy, enhance strategic partnerships, and promote regional stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.