Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday commenced a three-country diplomatic visit covering Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand, with the objective of strengthening India’s strategic partnerships, expanding economic cooperation and reinforcing its vision for a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
The multi-nation tour is expected to focus on defence collaboration, trade, emerging technologies, cultural exchanges and engagement with the Indian diaspora.
Indonesia First Stop Of The Tour
The Prime Minister’s first destination is Indonesia, where he is visiting at the invitation of President Prabowo Subianto.
Highlighting the importance of bilateral ties, Modi said India and Indonesia have built a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that continues to grow across multiple sectors. He noted that the visit follows President Prabowo’s visit to India as the Chief Guest for the Republic Day celebrations earlier this year.
During his stay, the Prime Minister is also scheduled to meet members of the Indian diaspora and visit the historic Prambanan Temple complex in Yogyakarta alongside the Indonesian President, underlining the shared cultural and civilisational links between the two nations.
Australia Visit To Focus On Defence And Technology
Following Indonesia, Modi will travel to Melbourne for talks with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
The discussions are expected to cover defence cooperation, security, trade, investment, education, mobility and collaboration in emerging technologies. Sports and sports science are also likely to feature in the bilateral agenda as both countries seek to expand cooperation beyond traditional sectors.
The Prime Minister is also scheduled to interact with the Indian community in Australia, describing the diaspora as an important bridge in strengthening India-Australia relations.
New Zealand Visit To Build On Growing Momentum
The final leg of the tour will take Modi to Auckland, where he will hold discussions with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.
The meeting is expected to build upon recent progress in bilateral relations, with particular emphasis on expanding trade, investment and commercial engagement. Both countries have expressed commitment to strengthening economic ties following the signing of a Free Trade Agreement.
Modi is also expected to address members of the Indian diaspora in New Zealand, acknowledging their contribution to enhancing relations between the two countries.
Focus On Act East Policy And Indo-Pacific Vision
The Prime Minister said the three-nation visit reflects India’s continued commitment to its Act East Policy and MAHASAGAR Vision, while reinforcing cooperation across the Indo-Pacific region.
According to Modi, the tour aims to deepen partnerships with key regional nations, promote economic growth, strengthen maritime cooperation and support a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific.
The visit is expected to result in a series of high-level meetings and discussions designed to further expand India’s diplomatic, strategic and economic engagement with the region.
