External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in New Delhi on Friday, prior to Subianto’s participation as the Chief Guest for India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations.

Jaishankar shared details of the meeting on X, highlighting discussions on bilateral relations. He noted the importance of Subianto’s presence for advancing ties between the two countries.

President Subianto arrived in New Delhi on Friday night for his first state visit to India, scheduled from January 23-26. Minister of State for External Affairs, Pabitra Margherita, received him at the airport.

As part of his visit, President Subianto is expected to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Droupadi Murmu, and Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the visit’s role in bolstering the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

For the Republic Day Parade, a contingent of 352 members, including a marching band from Indonesia, will participate. This marks the first instance of an Indonesian contingent taking part in a national day parade outside Indonesia.

Several MoUs and announcements are likely to be concluded and the third CEO Forum will be held on the sidelines.

India and Indonesia formalized their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Modi’s official visit to Indonesia in 2018. This partnership emphasizes maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. Additionally, Modi and Subianto met last November during the G20 Summit in Brazil, marking their first meeting.

President Prabowo Subianto is the fourth Indonesian President to attend India’s Republic Day celebrations.(ANI)