PM Modi Reaches Jakarta, Holds Delegation Talks
The prime minister is likely to sign key agreements in various sectors with both Singapore and Indonesia.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, 29 May arrived in Jakarta on the first leg of his three-nation tour to East Asia, aimed at discussing the political, economic and strategic interests of the two friendly maritime neighbours.
"Landed in Jakarta. India and Indonesia are friendly maritime neighbours with deep civilisational links. This visit will further the convergence of our political, economic and strategic interests," Modi tweeted in both Indonesian and English soon after his arrival.
Prime Minister Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome on his arrival. "This is my first visit to Indonesia as Prime Minister. I am looking forward to my discussions with President Widodo on 30 May, as also to our joint interaction with the India-Indonesia CEOs Forum. I will also address the Indian community in Indonesia," Modi said on the eve of his visit.
Meeting at Merdeka Palace
Prime Minister Modi was welcomed by Indonesia President Joko Widodo at Merdeka Palace on Wednesday, 30 May.
Delegation talks between India and Indonesia are currently underway.
Earlier in the day, Modi paid a visit to the Kalibata National Heroes' Cemetery in the city and paid a tribute to the war heroes who lost their lives fighting for the country.
Modi had earlier said that India and Indonesia enjoyed strong and friendly ties and shared deep historical and civilisational linkages. "Both countries are multi-ethnic, multi-religious, plural and open societies. I am confident that my visit to Indonesia will create greater synergy between Asia's two largest democracies and further elevate our bilateral ties," he said.
Joint Statement With President Widodo
Issuing a joint statement with Indonesian President Widodo, Modi addressed the issue of terror and peace and said that a strong unity between the two countries would ensure long-term guarantee of peace not only in the Indo-Pacific region, but also beyond it.
He also said that with a view of “development of the Indo-Pacific region, we (India - Indonesia) have agreed to the same shared vision.”
The vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for all in the Region) and India's Act East Policy is in line with that of President Jidodo's Maritime Fulcrum Policy, he said.
On 31 May, on his way to Singapore, he will make a brief halt in Malaysia to congratulate the new Malaysian leadership. In Singapore, Prime Minister Modi will deliver the keynote address at Shangri-La Dialogue, an annual security meet, on 1 June.
He will also meet Singapore President Halimah Yacob and hold delegation level talks with Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.
(This is a developing story. Further details are awaited)
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