Bilateral talks between India and Indonesia today; focus on boosting defense, trade, and energy ties…

Jakarta. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently visiting Indonesia, is set to hold a bilateral meeting with President Prabowo Subianto on Tuesday to discuss strengthening ties in defense, trade, energy, and strategic sectors. A deal regarding the BrahMos missile system could also be finalized during this visit; negotiations for the ₹2,500 crore deal to purchase BrahMos missiles from India are in the final stages.

PM Modi’s visit is considered crucial in the context of India’s ‘Act East’ policy, its maritime vision, and the goal of a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. Before departing from Delhi, the Prime Minister stated that significant decisions regarding maritime security, partnerships in the Indo-Pacific, trade, and investment would be taken during the visit.

BrahMos missile deal likely

A major highlight of the bilateral talks is the potential deal for the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile. According to sources, Indonesia is preparing to purchase BrahMos missile systems on a large scale, moving beyond the previously planned procurement of a single battery. It is expected that, following the Philippines, Indonesia will become a major ASEAN nation to acquire the BrahMos missile.

Signing of multiple bilateral agreements

The two nations will sign agreements covering sectors such as health, agriculture, food security, science and technology, space, pharmaceuticals, education, manufacturing, and critical minerals, thereby strengthening bilateral economic ties. According to reports, bilateral trade in goods between the two countries stood at $24.8 billion in 2026, down from $38.8 billion in the 2023 fiscal year.

Grand welcome for PM Modi

PM Modi received a grand welcome upon his arrival at the airport in Jakarta, the Indonesian capital, on Monday—the first leg of his three-nation tour. President Subianto personally arrived at the airport to receive him. Subianto was accompanied by four of his ministers. Modi was accorded a Guard of Honour. PM Modi stated that he was deeply impressed by the President’s manner of welcoming him. Discussions will be held on strengthening the partnership between the two nations. The Prime Minister will stay in Indonesia until July 8, after which he will travel to Australia and New Zealand.