Prabowo Subianto to Be Republic Day Chief Guest in 2025

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has formally accepted New Delhi’s invitation to be the chief guest at India’s 2025 Republic Day parade. His visit marks a significant step in enhancing India-Indonesia relations, signaling the importance of the Act East Policy in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term. The two countries are expected to bolster their strategic cooperation, defense ties, and economic engagement during this visit.

Key Highlights

Historical Ties

• Indonesia’s First President Sukarno was India’s first Republic Day guest in 1950.
• Both nations share over 2,000 years of cultural and commercial ties, including Hindu, Buddhist, and Islamic influences.
• Indonesia’s folk art, theater, and traditions are heavily influenced by Ramayana and Mahabharata stories.

Modern Strategic Ties

• In 2018, India and Indonesia signed a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during PM Modi’s visit to Jakarta.
• Both countries agreed on the ‘Shared Vision on Maritime Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific’, focusing on defense and maritime security.
• Subianto’s visit in 2025 aims to strengthen defense cooperation and strategic relations.

Economic Relations

• Bilateral Trade (2023-24) USD 26.69 billion
• India’s Imports from Indonesia Coal, crude palm oil, minerals, rubber, paper, hydrocarbons
• India’s Exports to Indonesia Refined petroleum, vehicles, telecom equipment, agriculture products, meat, steel
• Indian Investments in Indonesia Over 30 Indian joint ventures operating in various sectors

Significance of Visit 2025

• Prabowo Subianto being the first Republic Day guest of PM Modi’s third term highlights the importance of India-Indonesia ties.
• It underscores India’s focus on maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, a region critical for India’s Act East Policy.
• The visit is expected to result in enhanced defense partnerships and investment opportunities.

Cultural and Diplomatic Importance

• Indonesia is India’s largest trading partner in ASEAN.
• The visit will build on historical and cultural connections, along with modern economic and strategic cooperation.