President Prabowo: Indonesia And India Enter The New Round Of Bilateral Cooperation

President Prabowo Subianto stated that Indonesia and India are now entering a new chapter in strengthening bilateral cooperation in various fields that will provide great benefits to both countries. The statement was made by President Prabowo during his official visit to New Delhi, India, on Saturday, January 25, before the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi.

"This is a new chapter to improve and strengthen the cooperation between Indonesia and India," said President Prabowo with full optimism.

In his remarks, President Prabowo emphasized that relations between Indonesia and India have been closely established for a long time. He appreciated India's irreplaceable support since Indonesia proclaimed its independence in 1945. India, according to Prabowo, was one of the first countries to recognize Indonesia's independence on the international stage.

"India is present in difficult times of our struggle. They provide political support as a new sovereign country, and even provide land grants for the Indonesian Embassy in India," he said.

The President also noted that India's role does not stop in the past. Currently, India continues to provide its support, including in the Indonesian membership process at BRICS, an intergovernmental organization that is believed to be able to increase strategic cooperation to face global challenges.

On this occasion, President Prabowo opened wide opportunities for India to invest in Indonesia, especially in the infrastructure sector. He is committed to ensuring that all processes run smoothly, including by stepping in directly when necessary.

"If it is necessary, I will continue to intervene to ensure everything runs," said Prabowo, affirming his pragmatic approach to reducing bureaucratic and licensing barriers.

Meanwhile, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his hope that bilateral cooperation between the two countries could be closer in various sectors. Modi highlighted the importance of collaboration in defense manufacturing, development of renewable energy (green energy), and artificial intelligence (AI) technology.

"We hope that this relationship can continue to develop and provide tangible benefits for the people of the two countries," said Modi.

President Prabowo's visit was also marked by the signing of a number of memorandums of understanding (MoU) in various sectors. The MoU covers the field of communication technology represented by the Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Meutya Hafid, the health sector by the Minister of Health Budi Gunadi Sadikin, the field of maritime and defense security by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Sugiono, as well as the field of culture by the Minister of Culture Fadli Zon.

In addition, the General Chairperson of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin), Anindya Bakrie, also signed an MoU that strengthened cooperation between employers' associations from the two countries.

Several high-ranking Indonesian officials who attended the visit included Coordinating Minister for the Economy Airlangga Hartarto, Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia, Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya, and adviser to the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Hashim Djojohadikusumo.

This visit will also be continued with the presence of President Prabowo on the commemoration of the Day of the Republic of India (Republic Day) which will take place on January 26, 2025. During the celebration, President Prabowo is scheduled to be an honorary guest (Chief Guest), a great honor that reflects the close relationship between Indonesia and India.

With the various agreements that have been reached and strengthening bilateral relations in various fields, this visit is a new milestone in relations between the two countries, creating mutually beneficial cooperation opportunities for the future.