Narendra Modi’s Indonesia visit has been mostly focussed on stepping up defence and maritime cooperation. The Indonesian President Joko Widodo met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and discussed several issues concerning the two countries.

No doubt, the stress was to develop infrastructure and an economic zone at Sabang which is on the tip of Sumatra Island and at the mouth of the Malacca Strait, one of the busiest shipping channels for global trade. With China’s rising maritime influence, the India – Indonesia meet is focussed as part of Modi’s ‘Act East’ policy of developing stronger ties with the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) countries.

In a statement, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said,”The India-ASEAN partnership can be a force to guarantee peace and progress in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.”The Indonesian President affirmed,”India is a strategic defense partner and we will continue to advance our cooperation in developing infrastructure, including at Sabang Island and the Andaman Island.”

No doubt, there has been tension in Southeast Asia over the disputed South China Sea. The busy waterway is mostly claimed by China. Let’s not forget that Brunei, Malayasia, Philipines, Taiwan and Vietnam havw conflicting aims in the area. The relation between China and Indonesia is not that smooth.

There have been claims and counter claims over fishing rights around the Natuna Islands and Indonesia has expanded its military presence there. Thus from Indian perspective, this meet is of paramount international importance and will have an impact on China.