Day One of President of Indonesia Joko Widodo in India was fruitful. The two countries have agreed that defence and security ties will be top priority.
“Indonesia is one of India’s most valued partners in our Act East Policy,'' said Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a press statement. “It is the largest economy in South East Asia. And, India is one of the fastest growing large economies in the world. As two large democracies and major emerging economies, we have shared economic and strategic interests. We also face common concerns and challenges.''
This is the first visit of President Widodo after assuming power in October. The two leaders—who have similar backgrounds of battling poverty when young—also discussed maritime security. It is an area of common interest between the two countries—especially with an eye on China—and the two have promised to “further strengthen and accelerate maritime cooperation'' by signing a memorandum of understanding.
“India and Indonesia share common interests in ensuring maritime security and the safety of sea lines of communication,” said a joint statement. In a clear signal to the dragon, the statement also “recognised the importance of freedom of navigation and overflight on the high seas, unimpeded lawful commerce, as well as resolving maritime disputes by peaceful means, in accordance with universally recognised principles of international law including the UNCLOS.''
Three memorandum of understanding were signed on Monday. Both India and Indonesia have also promised closer cooperation between the ministry of sports and youth affairs in both the countries. Joint Communiqué on the Voluntary International Cooperation to Combat Illegal, Unregulated and Unreported (IUU) Fishing and to promote Sustainable Fisheries Governance was also signed.
Over the years, the relationship between the two countries has evolved from being cultural and historic to commercial. Indonesia has emerged to become the second largest trading partner of India in the ASEAN region. Bilateral trade has increased from 6.9 billion dollars in 2007-08 to 19.03 billion in 2014- 15. President Widodo has travelled with a large business delegation and is hoping to get Indian investment in IT.
