PM Narendra Modi receives Indonesia's highest award, says for the people of India

JAKARTA - Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the relationship between Indonesia and India has entered a new golden phase. The statement was made after he met President Prabowo Subianto during a state visit at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Tuesday, July 7.

Modi said that the relationship between the two countries in recent years has gained new energy, new trust, and stronger depth. The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership built in 2018, he said, is now moving to a more advanced stage.

"I am confident that from today, the India-Indonesia partnership will enter a new golden chapter," Modi said in a joint statement with President Prabowo.

According to Modi, cooperation between Indonesia and India will have a major impact on the 21st century. He said that both countries are moving in many sectors, ranging from development, security, technology, culture, to education.

Modi also thanked President Prabowo for the welcome given during his visit to Indonesia. He called Prabowo a friend and recalled the Indonesian President's visit to India last year as the main guest at the celebration of India's Republic Day.

"Last year, we had the honor to welcome him as the main guest at the celebration of the Indian Republic Day," Modi said.

During his visit to Indonesia, Modi also received Indonesia's highest award. He said the award was not only given to him, but also to millions of Indians.

"This award is not just for me, but for millions of Indians," Modi said.

Modi assessed that the award reflects the friendship of the Indonesian people and the historical relationship between the two countries. He said that the relationship between Indonesia and India is not only based on government diplomacy, but also on cultural closeness and inter-community relations.

According to Modi, both countries have equal strength in democracy and unity in diversity. Cooperation between the two countries' election commissions will strengthen democratic cooperation.

Modi also touched on the similarities between Indonesia and India on global issues. He said India pays special attention to the centrality of ASEAN. In the midst of today's global challenges, Modi assessed that dialogue and diplomacy are increasingly important.

Regarding Palestine, Modi emphasized that India supports a two-state solution and long-term peace.

"A new era of hope now lies ahead for both countries," Modi said.

He concluded his statement by saying that India and Indonesia have a common cultural heritage, faith in the present, and a shared aspiration for the future. Modi believes that the two countries can realize Indonesia's vision of Emas and Viksit Bharat or a prosperous India.