Indonesian president Prabowo Subianto Djojohadikusumo, on his first official visit to India since assuming office in October 2024, was given a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Saturday. President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended the honor to the Indonesian leader, who is also the chief guest for India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations on Sunday.
President Prabowo Subianto Djojohadikusumo arrived in New Delhi on Thursday evening, greeted warmly at the airport by Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita. His visit marks a significant chapter in the strong and enduring relationship between India and Indonesia, built on shared historical ties and a commitment to enhanced collaboration.
Speaking to reporters after the ceremonial welcome, President Prabowo Subianto Djojohadikusumo expressed deep gratitude for the recognition, recalling India’s critical support during Indonesia’s struggle for independence. “I would like to express my deepest appreciation for the great honor I received today. Indonesia considers India a very close friend. India was one of the first countries, perhaps the first, to recognize our independence and support us in our struggle for freedom. We will never forget what India did to help us,” he said. He also emphasized his determination to promote closer cooperation and partnership with India.
The Indonesian president’s itinerary includes a wreath-laying ceremony at Rajghat, followed by bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House. The high-level discussions will feature the exchange of memorandums of understanding (MOUs) and joint press statements, focusing on strengthening bilateral ties across sectors.
President Prabowo Subianto Djojohadikusumo will also meet Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar at the Taj Mahal Hotel and hold further discussions with President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. On Friday, External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar called on President Prabowo Subianto Djojohadikusumo, highlighting Indonesia’s pivotal role in India’s foreign policy. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar shared his sentiments, noting the positive trajectory of multifaceted bilateral ties.
In a pre-departure statement, President Prabowo Subianto Djojohadikusumo acknowledged India’s unwavering support during Indonesia’s independence struggle, recalling India’s contributions of medical aid, financial assistance, and other critical support. He underscored the enduring importance of India as a partner and friend.
As part of the celebrations, Indonesia has sent a 352-member contingent of its National Armed Forces, including defile troops and a drum band, to participate in the Republic Day parade. This gesture echoes historical camaraderie, as Indonesia’s first president, Sukarno, was the chief guest at India’s inaugural Republic Day in 1950.
The visit reaffirms the deep-rooted friendship and growing collaboration between India and Indonesia, reflecting a shared vision for mutual prosperity and regional stability.
