India and Indonesia pledged to strengthen their defence cooperation, with New Delhi committing to support Jakarta’s defence modernisation efforts through experience-sharing and expertise. According to a joint statement issued on Sunday, a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and visiting Indonesian President Prabowo after their bilateral meeting, welcomed the ratification of the agreement concerning Cooperation in the field of Defence (DCA), expressing confidence that this would lead to further deeping of defence ties.
President Subianto was the chief guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations, marking a significant milestone in the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Highlighting the need for domestic defence manufacturing, President Subianto lauded India’s advancements in this sector and expressed interest in deepening collaboration. Both sides agreed to utilise the Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC) as a key platform to foster defence industry partnerships.
“Recognising the importance of building domestic defence manufacturing capabilities, President Prabowo appreciated India’s advancements and expressed interest in strengthening cooperation in this sector. Both countries affirmed their commitment to deepen collaboration in the defence industry by utilising the joint defence cooperation committee (JDCC),” the statement said.
Notably, discussions on Indonesia’s acquisition of the BrahMos missile system have progressed, with both countries reaching a broad understanding of the pricing of a deal estimated at $450 million.
South China Sea Conflict
Reaffirming their commitment to regional peace and stability, the two leaders emphasised the importance of freedom of navigation, overflight, and lawful maritime commerce in accordance with international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). They stressed the need for peaceful dispute resolution and expressed support for the full implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea. Both nations also advocated for the early adoption of a substantive Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea that aligns with international law.
“They supported the full and effective implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of the Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) in its entirety and look forward to the early conclusion of an effective and substantive Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC) that is in accordance with international law,” the statement said.
India reiterated its commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific grounded in respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. It also advocates for the peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue within the framework of international laws.
President Subianto welcomed India’s proactive role in enhancing maritime security and its engagement with regional mechanisms to ensure the safety and security of sea lanes.
In a joint condemnation of terrorism, both nations denounced all forms of terrorism and reaffirmed their resolve to combat the menace through bilateral and multilateral initiatives. They stressed the importance of global efforts to eliminate terror financing, prevent recruitment, and deny safe havens to terrorist groups while urging collective action in adherence to international obligations.
“Both leaders underscored the importance of strengthening global efforts to combat terrorism, including eliminating terror financing and preventing the recruitment of terrorists, without any double standards. They emphasised the need for all countries to work collectively to deny safe havens and support networks to terrorist groups, in accordance with international obligations and commitments.”
The two leaders also underscored the need for cooperation in emerging technologies. They expressed confidence in the potential of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on digital development signed during the visit. The MoU aims to strengthen collaboration in digital public infrastructure, capacity building, and cybersecurity for inclusive growth and global problem-solving.
Team BharatShakti
