Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, 7 July told the Indian community in Jakarta that India's economy is playing a pivotal role in powering global growth, crediting the guiding mantra of 'Reform, Perform and Transform' for accelerating the country's development and elevating its standing on the world stage.

Key Highlights from the Jakarta Address

Addressing a gathering of the Indian diaspora in Indonesia, Modi said the Indian community abroad serves as a vital bridge — acting as ambassadors of Indian culture, values, and traditions across the globe. He thanked them for their contribution in deepening bilateral ties between India and Indonesia.

The Prime Minister also recalled Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto's visit to India as Chief Guest for the Republic Day celebrations, citing a remark that resonated deeply with millions of Indians. 'You had said that you have India's DNA. That one statement won the hearts of millions of Indians, and even today, it received the loudest applause. I want to say that DNA is built on mutual trust and shared history,' Modi said.

A Civilisational Bond, Not Just Diplomacy

Modi stressed that the India-Indonesia relationship transcends conventional diplomacy, rooted instead in centuries of shared cultural and historical heritage. 'The relations between India and Indonesia are civilisational,' he said, adding that the friendship between the two nations continues to grow stronger with each passing year.

Notably, earlier on the same day, Modi was conferred Indonesia's highest civilian honour. He dedicated the award to 1.4 billion Indians and to every member of the Indian diaspora, calling it 'another symbol of the close friendship between India and Indonesia.'

A Warm Welcome in Indonesian Airspace

The Prime Minister expressed being deeply moved by the reception accorded to him upon arrival. President Prabowo personally received him at the airport, accompanied by members of the Cabinet. Modi noted that the enthusiasm of the people, children, and youth reflected strong goodwill toward India. 'From the moment my aircraft entered Indonesian airspace and I set foot here, I have been overwhelmed by the affection and warmth shown by the people of Indonesia,' he said.

What This Visit Signals

The Jakarta visit underscores India's intensifying engagement with Southeast Asia under its Act East Policy. Indonesia, as the region's largest economy and a fellow G20 member, is a strategic partner India has been courting more actively in recent years. This comes amid a broader Indian diplomatic push to diversify partnerships and assert greater influence in the Indo-Pacific. The bilateral relationship, already anchored in defence, trade, and cultural exchanges, appears set for further deepening following this visit.