NEW DELHI: External Affairs Minister of India Dr. S. Jaishankar on June 7, Sunday, co-chaired the 8th India–Indonesia Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) in New Delhi with Indonesia’s Foreign Minister Sugiono, reaffirming the commitment of both countries to deepen their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and expand cooperation across a wide range of sectors.
The high-level meeting marked another important step in strengthening ties between India and Indonesia, two major Indo-Pacific nations with longstanding civilisational connections and growing strategic interests. During the discussions, the two ministers reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations and explored opportunities to further enhance collaboration in political, economic, security and people-centric areas.
Dr. Jaishankar emphasized the importance of maintaining strong momentum in the relationship, highlighting the shared commitment of both governments to advancing cooperation in key sectors. The discussions covered defence and security, maritime affairs, trade and investment, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, digital technologies, energy, connectivity, space research, education, cultural exchanges and consular matters.
The meeting also focused on expanding economic engagement between the two countries. Both sides acknowledged the growing trade and investment ties and discussed measures to unlock new opportunities for businesses and investors. The ministers stressed the need to strengthen economic resilience and promote mutually beneficial partnerships in emerging sectors such as digital innovation, clean energy and advanced technologies.
A significant part of the discussions centered on regional and maritime cooperation. As influential players in the Indo-Pacific region, India and Indonesia share common interests in ensuring peace, stability and prosperity. The ministers exchanged views on developments affecting the region and explored ways to enhance coordination on maritime security, connectivity initiatives and regional architecture.
Dr. Jaishankar and Minister Sugiono also reviewed progress made since the elevation of bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. They noted that recent high-level interactions had played a crucial role in strengthening the relationship and providing fresh direction for future cooperation.
Particular attention was given to the discussions held between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto during the latter’s State Visit to India in January 2025. According to both sides, the engagement between the two leaders injected renewed momentum into bilateral ties and helped identify new areas for collaboration.
The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining regular dialogue and strengthening institutional mechanisms that support cooperation. They agreed that sustained engagement at political, diplomatic and sectoral levels would help both countries achieve shared objectives and address common challenges more effectively.
Apart from bilateral matters, the two leaders exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual concern. They underscored the importance of cooperation and coordination in multilateral and regional forums, reflecting the growing convergence of interests between India and Indonesia on international issues.
The discussions highlighted the role of both countries in shaping regional stability and supporting a rules-based international order. The ministers also emphasized the value of working together in forums that promote economic development, security cooperation and sustainable growth.
At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides expressed satisfaction with the positive trajectory of India–Indonesia relations. They welcomed the steady expansion of cooperation across traditional sectors as well as emerging areas and agreed to hold the next Joint Commission Meeting at a mutually convenient date in the near future.
Indonesia continues to occupy a significant place in India’s Act East Policy and remains one of New Delhi’s most important partners in Southeast Asia. Rooted in centuries of cultural and historical connections, the relationship has evolved into a broad-based strategic partnership that spans multiple sectors.
The latest Joint Commission Meeting reflected the determination of both nations to further strengthen their partnership in a rapidly changing global environment. With Dr. Jaishankar leading India’s diplomatic outreach and engagement with Jakarta, both countries signaled their intent to deepen cooperation and build a stronger, more comprehensive relationship for the future.
