Indonesia and India sign a series of agreements under witness of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto (left) and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi (right). — ANI/VNA Photo

NEW DELHI — Indonesia and India signed a series of agreements on Saturday, covering maritime security, health care, traditional medicine, culture, and digital cooperation.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of India's Republic Day celebrations on Sunday.

Earlier the same day, Subianto and Modi held bilateral talks in New Delhi, marking an important step in strengthening the relationship between the two countries.

They emphasised their shared commitment to peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, along with their determination to deepen the long-term strategic partnership between Indonesia and India.

Following the talks, Modi said the two leaders had decided to work together in defence manufacturing and supply chains to promote defence cooperation; expand cooperation in issues such as maritime security, cybersecurity, counter terrorism and de-radicalisation; and conduct joint exercises on disaster management.

He noted that India and Indonesia had agreed to cooperate in fintech, artificial intelligence (AI), digital public infrastructure, energy, critical minerals, space, and STEM education.

For his part, Subianto revealed a plan to send a high-level defence delegation to India to follow up on the ratification of the defence cooperation agreement between the two sides.

He called on Indian investors and companies to invest in developing infrastructure in Indonesia. He urged stronger educational collaboration to increase the number of Indonesian students in India, and invited Indian educational institutions to establish branches in Indonesia. — VNS