India’s invitation to Indonesia’s new president, Prabowo Subianto, as the chief guest for Republic Day 2025 reflects the weight India attaches to its Act East policy and its intention to strengthen ties with Indonesia and encourage its expanding regional and global role, particularly within the Asean Plus framework.

Deeper India-Indonesia ties need prioritising five key areas.

Defence partnership: This must transcend routine exercises and coordinated patrols, focusing on defence exports and joint production initiatives. Indonesia has shown interest in acquiring BrahMos missiles, though progress has been slower compared to the Philippines, which expedited its procurement process. All eyes will be on Prabowo’s visit, given his track record of diversifying defence purchases during his tenure as defence minister under President Joko Widodo. India must seize this opportunity to establish itself as a reliable defence partner.

Economic engagement and trade enhancement: Indonesia........

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