Why is it in the news?

• Celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations, India and Indonesia continue to foster robust ties across political, economic, and cultural spheres.

 Key aspects of Relationship

• Diplomatic relations between India and Indonesia were established in 1950, marked by the visit of the Indonesian President and the signing of the Treaty of Friendship in 1951.
• Both nations were pivotal participants in the Bandung Conference of 1955, a landmark event in the history of the Non-Aligned Movement.
• The relationship was elevated to a Strategic Partnership in 2005, further strengthened to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
• Both countries cooperate extensively in various international forums including the G20, Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), East Asia Summit, and the United Nations.
• Indonesia’s inclusion in India’s Act East Policy (2014) underscores the growing significance of bilateral ties in the context of India’s broader regional engagement.
• Indonesia has emerged as India’s largest trading partner within the Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) region, with bilateral trade steadily increasing over the years.
• India is a significant importer of crude palm oil from Indonesia, highlighting the economic interdependence between the two nations.
• Indonesia’s strategic geographical location between the Indian and Pacific Oceans makes it a key player in regional maritime security.
• India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative includes collaboration with Indonesia in developing port infrastructure, such as the Sabang port.
• Both countries conduct joint military exercises like Samudra Shakti and the India-Indonesia Coordinated Patrol (IND-INDO CORPAT) to enhance maritime security cooperation.
• Hinduism and Buddhism have deeply influenced the cultural fabric of Indonesia, serving as bridges of cultural exchange between the two nations.
• Cultural ties are further bolstered through various exchanges, cultural events, and people-to-people contacts, fostering mutual understanding and friendship.