Act East in Action: PM Modi's Indonesia visit set to revitalise civilizational connect

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Indonesia on Monday as part of a three-nation tour focused on bolstering India's Act East Policy and deepening its Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the Southeast Asian nation.

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Landed in Jakarta. I'm touched by President Prabowo Subianto's gesture of welcoming me at the airport. In 2018 we elevated our relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which has benefitted our people.

Modi received a ceremonial welcome, with Indonesian Air Force fighter jets escorting his aircraft into Indonesian airspace. He was greeted at the airport by President Prabowo Subianto and several other ministers. "Landed in Jakarta. I'm touched by President Prabowo Subianto's gesture of welcoming me at the airport. In 2018 we elevated our relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which has benefitted our people," Modi stated on X.

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It reflected the timeless teachings of Lord Buddha and the profound values embodied in the Triple Gem. It is heartening to see the rich Buddhist heritage being preserved and celebrated with such passion by the people of Indonesia.

The Prime Minister also engaged with the Indian community in Jakarta, describing their affection and commitment to India's progress as "truly inspiring." He witnessed various cultural performances, including 'Homage to the Triple Gem' by the Vihara Dharma Ratna Group, which he called "exceptional" for reflecting Buddhist teachings and heritage. A Bharatanatyam performance by the Samanvaya Group and Wayang Kulit shadow puppetry depicting the Ramayana were also presented.

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It was a moving reminder of how our shared civilisational heritage has travelled across seas and generations, taking on beautiful local expressions while preserving its eternal values. My compliments to the team, which is known as Ganesh, for the performance.

Modi emphasized that his visits to Indonesia and Australia, followed by New Zealand, will reinforce India's Act East Policy, its MAHASAGAR Vision, and its commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. This marks Modi's fourth visit to Indonesia and his first bilateral visit since the relationship was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in May 2018.

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My visit to Indonesia and Australia in the Eastern and Southern Indian Ocean respectively, followed by New Zealand will further strengthen India's Act East Policy, MAHASAGAR Vision as well as our outlook towards a free and open Indo-Pacific.