Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has embarked on a six-day official visit to Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand, in what New Delhi describes as a key diplomatic initiative to reinforce its ‘Act East’ policy. The tour will focus on expanding bilateral ties while deepening cooperation in regional security, trade, economic development and the Indo-Pacific.
In a statement issued ahead of his departure, Modi said India remains committed to strengthening its partnerships with Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand while working towards a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.
The first leg of the visit will take Modi to Indonesia, where he is scheduled to spend two days at the invitation of President Prabowo Subianto. The two leaders are expected to discuss a broad range of issues, including political engagement, economic and trade cooperation, defence collaboration and cultural exchanges.
Modi noted that during his 2018 visit to Indonesia, bilateral relations were elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He expressed confidence that his first bilateral visit since then would inject fresh momentum into the expanding relationship between the two countries.
During his stay in Indonesia, the Indian prime minister will also meet members of the Indian diaspora and, together with President Prabowo, visit the historic Prambanan Temple, which India regards as a lasting symbol of the two nations’ deep-rooted cultural ties.
Following Indonesia, Modi will travel to Melbourne, where he is scheduled to hold talks with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Discussions are expected to centre on defence and security cooperation, trade and investment, education, skilled workforce mobility and strengthening people-to-people exchanges.
India and Australia have significantly expanded their strategic and economic partnership in recent years and have worked closely to promote maritime security and stability across the Indo-Pacific region.
The final leg of the tour will take Modi to New Zealand, where he is expected to meet the country’s leadership to discuss expanding cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, education and technology.
According to the Indian government, the three-nation visit is aimed at broadening economic partnerships, strengthening resilient supply chains, enhancing maritime security cooperation and advancing regional collaboration across the Indo-Pacific.
Source: Statement from the Prime Minister’s Office of India.