JAKARTA: Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Indian diaspora in Jakarta on Tuesday, reaffirming India’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Indonesia and highlighting the growing ties between the two nations.
Prime Minister Modi received a warm welcome from members of the Indian community and Indonesian friends of India at the event. In a special gesture, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto also attended the community reception alongside the Prime Minister.
Thanking the gathering for the enthusiastic reception, Modi described President Prabowo as “a great leader and a true friend of India.” He praised the Indian diaspora for its contribution to Indonesia’s development and prosperity, calling them a living bridge of friendship between the two countries.
The Prime Minister said India remains committed to deepening bilateral relations with Indonesia based on mutual trust, shared cultural heritage and centuries-old maritime links. He highlighted the long-standing civilisational connections between the two countries, citing traditions such as Bali Yatra, the Vesak pilgrimage, and academic cooperation through Nalanda University.
Modi also highlighted India’s rapid progress in infrastructure development, the startup ecosystem and social welfare programmes, noting that more than 250 million people have been lifted out of poverty in recent years. He said India has remained the world’s fastest-growing major economy for several years and has emerged as a key driver of global economic growth.
Calling on the Indian community to contribute to the shared vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and Indonesia Emas 2045, the Prime Minister said India is committed to acting as a force multiplier for progress and prosperity in Indonesia and across the ASEAN region.
Indonesia is home to around 150,000 Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) and nearly 15,000 Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), with the community continuing to play a significant role in the country’s economy and multicultural society.
