JAKARTA: Indonesia on Tuesday (July 7) awarded its highest state honour, the "Bintang Republik Indonesia Adipurna” to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in recognition of his leadership and contribution to strengthening bilateral relations and advancing cooperation between the two countries.
President Prabowo Subianto said the honour recognised Modi's leadership and contribution in strengthening Indonesia-India relations to the level of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, as well as his continuous efforts to enhance cooperation between the two countries.
"It is also in recognition of his support for various programmes and projects that have helped Indonesia's development,” he said during a joint press statement with Modi following their bilateral meeting at the Merdeka Palace, here, which was streamed live on YouTube.
Modi is on a state visit to Indonesia at Prabowo's invitation, reciprocating the Indonesian president's visit to India earlier this year as the two countries continue to deepen their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
Prabowo said the same honour had previously been conferred on India's first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, in recognition of his significant role in strengthening Indonesia-India relations and his contribution as one of the pioneers and founders of the Non-Aligned Movement.
He described Modi's visit as a historic milestone, saying it reflected the commitment of both countries to continue advancing their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership through concrete and mutually beneficial cooperation.
He also expressed appreciation for India's support for Indonesia's permanent membership in BRICS.
Describing India as a country that has long been a close friend of Indonesia, Prabowo said the two countries share deep historical and cultural ties.
"We have a long cultural and historical background. Therefore, this visit once again reflects how much we wish to continue preserving that friendship and cooperation,” he said.- Bernama
