Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto shared a warm and light-hearted moment during a banquet lunch in Jakarta on Tuesday, with the Indonesian leader’s remarks earning enthusiastic applause from dignitaries representing both nations.
The exchange reflected the growing warmth in India-Indonesia relations while highlighting admiration for India’s development journey under PM Modi’s leadership.
Addressing the gathering, President Subianto said he closely follows PM Modi’s political journey and has adopted several of India’s successful programmes. He openly acknowledged drawing inspiration from India’s governance model and said both countries face similar challenges that require strong leadership and determined policymaking.
The Indonesian President described India’s progress as a model worth emulating.
“I follow your career and copy many of your programmes. And I don’t mind admitting it,” he remarked, prompting smiles across the hall.
President Subianto then joked that he was pleased no copyright existed on following India’s development path, leaving the audience, including PM Modi, laughing. His remarks also drew loud desk-thumping from senior officials attending the banquet.
Earlier, President Subianto conferred Indonesia’s highest civilian and military honour, the ‘Bintang Adipurna’, on Prime Minister Modi in recognition of his outstanding service and contribution to strengthening bilateral ties. Instituted in 1959, the prestigious decoration represents Indonesia’s highest national honour.
Before the bilateral talks, Indonesia accorded PM Modi an unprecedented ceremonial welcome in Jakarta. Schoolchildren lined the route to Merdeka Palace, waving Indian and Indonesian flags.
President Subianto greeted the Prime Minister with a warm embrace before both leaders observed the national anthems of their respective countries, reaffirming the strong Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations.
Also Read: ‘India Believes In Development, Not Expansionism’: PM Modi In Indonesia
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