Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a historic address to the Indonesian Parliament on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the bilateral relations between the two maritime neighbors. During his speech, the Prime Minister expressed his deep gratitude for the warm welcome he received, stating that the affection shown by the people of Indonesia, including the children, youth, and women, has made this day one of the most memorable of his life. He emphasized that being among the representatives of the Indonesian people was a matter of great fortune for him.
Highest Honor and Personal Bonds
The Prime Minister shared that he was honored with Indonesia's highest award earlier in the morning. He accepted this recognition with a humble and grateful heart on behalf of the countless Indians for whom the Indonesian people hold such deep affection. Referring to a conversation with President Prabowo, PM Modi noted that the President had spoken about copyright, while however, the Prime Minister remarked that there can be no copyright on love, affection, friendship, or mutual respect. He stated that his friendship with President Prabowo transcends all boundaries of copyright, reflecting the personal depth of the diplomatic ties between the two nations.
Shared Civilizational Heritage
Highlighting the ancient bonds that unite the two countries, PM Modi pointed out that India and Indonesia share the same ocean and a common history. He mentioned that the epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata, along with the legacy of Nalanda, serve as the cultural threads that connect the two societies. The Prime Minister observed that the names India, Indonesia, and the Indian Ocean themselves signify the profound relationships that bind the two nations together. He noted that the welcome he received from the Indonesian people was unforgettable and reflected the deep-rooted friendship between the two civilizations.
Democracy and Diversity
PM Modi described India as the Mother of Democracy and the world's largest democracy, while acknowledging Indonesia as the world's third-largest democracy. He drew parallels between the two nations, noting that both are home to hundreds of languages and diverse traditions, while he compared India's philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The World is One Family) with Indonesia's motto of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Unity in Diversity). He emphasized that both nations have made this diversity the very foundation of their democratic unity, proving that different cultures can thrive together under a democratic framework.
Economic Progress and Poverty Alleviation
Discussing India's economic trajectory, the Prime Minister stated that India is currently the fastest-growing large economy in the world. He highlighted a significant achievement of the last decade, noting that more than 250 million Indians have successfully moved out of poverty. PM Modi asserted that when India and Indonesia stand together, it strengthens the global belief that democracy is a powerful engine for creating opportunities and driving inclusive growth. This shared success story serves as a model for other developing nations.
Trade and Strategic Partnership
The Prime Minister provided details on the growing economic cooperation, noting that mutual trade between the two countries reached approximately 25 billion dollars last year. He mentioned that more than 100 Indian companies are currently operating in Indonesia, contributing to the local economy. Describing the two nations as some of the youngest societies in the world and significant maritime powers, he called them natural partners for the future. He emphasized that as strong voices of the Global South, India and Indonesia have immense opportunities to grow together.
Counter-Terrorism and Global Cooperation
On the issue of security, PM Modi stated that both nations have always stood together against terrorism. He expressed his gratitude to Indonesia for its firm support following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India, last year. He noted that the two countries are actively working together on counter-terrorism efforts through a Joint Working Group. Plus, he mentioned that while Indonesia became a full member of BRICS last year, India is chairing the group this year. He suggested that both nations can work together to make the BRICS platform more practical, balanced, and sensitive to the needs of the Global South.
The Ganga-Mahakam Vision
Concluding his address, PM Modi proposed the 'Ganga-Mahakam Vision' to the Indonesian Parliament. This vision aims to take the partnership beyond current needs and create a path for the security and shared progress of future generations. He proposed connecting civilizational ties with the thoughts and consciousness of the new generation. From the Ramayana to Borobudur, he suggested using shared history as a source of strength for the future. To facilitate this, he called for the initiation of an 'India-Indonesia Civilisation Dialogue' to deepen the understanding of their common roots.