India's GMR Eyes More Airport Investments in Indonesia

Indian airport operator GMR Airports Limited is actively seeking new investment opportunities in Indonesia, aiming to expand its presence in the nation's airport management sector. The company, which already holds a 49 percent stake in Kualanamu International Airport in Medan, North Sumatra, through a joint venture with PT Angkasa Pura II, expressed strong interest in participating in future bidding processes.

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If the government opens opportunities for the private sector, we would be very interested in participating in the bidding process. Everything depends on the Indonesian government. If the government is open to airport privatization, we are ready to participate.

Srinivas Bommidala, Business Chair International Airports & Energy at GMR Group, stated that the company's participation hinges on the Indonesian government's willingness to open opportunities for private sector involvement and airport privatization. "If the government opens opportunities for the private sector, we would be very interested in participating in the bidding process. Everything depends on the Indonesian government," Bommidala said.

Bommidala highlighted Indonesia's significance as a market for India, emphasizing the historical ties between the two nations. He sees Indonesia as a strategic location for enhancing connectivity between India and Southeast Asia, which could facilitate more direct international routes. This aligns with GMR's broader strategy to build an integrated international aviation platform that drives tourism, trade, and economic value.

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We know Indonesia is a very important country, which is why we are interested in increasing our investment there.

The company's interest comes at a time when both Indonesia and India are focused on strengthening transport links. During Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Jakarta, both leaders underscored the importance of enhancing maritime and air connectivity, calling for increased flight and port connections.

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With operations and partnerships spanning India, Indonesia, Philippines, and Greece; we are building an integrated international aviation platform that connects economies, drives tourism, facilitates trade, and creates long-term value for communities.