Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Indonesia's highest civilian honour, the Bintang Republik Indonesia Adipurna, during his two day state visit to the Southeast Asian nation. The award was presented by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at an official ceremony, recognizing the Indian Prime Minister's contribution to strengthening the relationship between India and Indonesia.
The Bintang Republik Indonesia Adipurna is the highest class of the Star of the Republic of Indonesia, the country's premier state decoration. Established in 1959, the honour is awarded by the President of Indonesia to individuals who have rendered exceptional service to the nation. While it is primarily bestowed upon Indonesian citizens, distinguished foreign leaders and dignitaries may also receive the award in recognition of their outstanding contributions to Indonesia's interests and international relations.
Prime Minister Modi's recognition comes at a time when India and Indonesia continue to expand cooperation across several strategic sectors. The two countries have maintained a comprehensive strategic partnership, working together in areas such as trade, investment, maritime security, defence cooperation, digital technology, renewable energy, healthcare, education, and cultural exchange.
During the visit, Prime Minister Modi and President Prabowo Subianto held bilateral discussions aimed at further strengthening ties between the two nations. The leaders reviewed progress in existing areas of cooperation and explored opportunities to deepen collaboration in emerging sectors, including the digital economy, sustainable development, clean energy, and infrastructure development.
India and Indonesia share strong historical and cultural connections dating back centuries through maritime trade and civilizational exchanges. In recent years, both countries have expanded diplomatic engagement through regular high level meetings and cooperation under regional and international forums such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, the East Asia Summit, and the Group of Twenty.
Maritime cooperation remains one of the most significant pillars of the bilateral relationship. Given their strategic locations in the Indian Ocean region, both countries continue to work closely on maritime security, freedom of navigation, disaster management, and strengthening regional stability under the broader vision of the Indo Pacific.
Trade between India and Indonesia has also witnessed steady growth over the years, with both governments encouraging greater investment and business collaboration. Indonesia is one of India's important partners in Southeast Asia, while India remains a key economic and strategic partner for Indonesia.
The conferment of Indonesia's highest civilian honour is viewed as a symbol of the strong and evolving partnership between the two democracies. It reflects the importance both countries place on expanding cooperation based on mutual respect, shared interests, and regional stability.
Officials from both governments have stated that the visit is expected to further enhance bilateral engagement and create new opportunities for cooperation in multiple sectors. The recognition also highlights the growing diplomatic relationship between India and Indonesia as they continue to work together on regional and global issues of common interest.