PM Modi meets Indonesian President Joko Widodo in Bangkok

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday held talks with Indonesian President Joko Widodo during which the two leaders resolved to work closely to deal with the threats of terrorism and extremism. The bilateral meet was held in the sidelines of the 16th ASEAN-India summit. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted, "Maritime neighbor, all-time friend. PM @narendramodi had an engaging conversation with Indonesian President @jokowi building on the convergences between the two countries. Focus on connectivity, trade & investment and Indo-Pacific."

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Closer relations

“Noting that India and Indonesia are close maritime neighbours, both leaders reiterated their commitment to work together for peace, security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region,” the Ministry of External Affairs said. PM Modi congratulated Widodo on the start of his second term as the President of Indonesia, and conveyed that as the world’s two largest democratic and plural societies, India was committed to working with Indonesia to strengthen ties in the areas of defence, security, connectivity, trade and investment, the MEA said in a statement. Prime Minister Modi had a forward-looking discussion on enhancing bilateral trade and highlighted the need for greater market access for Indian commodities including, pharmaceutical, automotive and agricultural products, it said. While noting that Indian companies have made a substantial investment in Indonesia, PM Modi invited Indonesian companies to use the opportunities presented in India for investment, the statement said.

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Long relationship

Prime Minister Modi invited President Jokowi to visit India at a mutually convenient time next year, it said. “India attaches high priority to its bilateral relationship with Indonesia, with which we share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” it added. This year, India and Indonesia are also commemorating the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.

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(With PTI inputs)