India and Indonesia deepen ties in Modi visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a state visit to Indonesia on Wednesday, reinforcing a strategic partnership between the world’s two largest democracies with agreements on defense, electoral cooperation, and a shared vision for a stable Indo-Pacific region. The three-day visit, which began on Monday, July 6, featured a major address to the Indonesian parliament and meetings with President Prabowo Subianto aimed at deepening bilateral ties.

In his speech to parliament on Tuesday, Modi emphasized that India pursues a path of development, not expansionism, and advocates for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific. While not naming China, the remarks were seen as an affirmation of sovereignty and peaceful dispute resolution amid regional concerns over maritime assertiveness. He placed the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) at the core of India’s Act East Policy and called for India and Indonesia to jointly champion the priorities of the Global South.

The leaders oversaw the signing of several agreements, including a memorandum of understanding for cooperation on election management. Under the pact, India’s Election Commission will share knowledge and technical...