Indonesia

Indonesia and India demonstrate strong alignment on issues such as counter-terrorism, where both actively cooperate and advocate for global action, and on UNSC reform, as both are strong proponents of expanding permanent and non-permanent seats to reflect contemporary geopolitical realities. On many general UN General Assembly resolutions, their stances align due to shared developing-world perspectives and a commitment to multilateralism. Divergences are noted, particularly in Indonesia's UN General Assembly votes on Ukraine, where it voted for resolutions condemning aggression and calling for an end to hostilities, contrasting with India's abstentions. Furthermore, Indonesia's participation in OIC statements expressing concern over the situation in Kashmir, while generally measured and emphasizing peaceful dialogue and international law, represents a divergence from India's position of it being an internal matter. In forums like FATF, Indonesia's approach is typically technical, focusing on compliance rather than political alignment.

India-Indonesia relations currently exhibit exceptional warmth at diplomatic and official levels, heavily reinforced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to Indonesia from July 6-8, 2026. This visit saw an extraordinary display of diplomatic hospitality, including President Prabowo Subianto personally receiving PM Modi at the airport, an escort by Indonesian Air Force jets, and the conferment of Indonesia's highest civilian honor, the 'Bintang Adipurna of the Republic of Indonesia', on PM Modi. During the visit, PM Modi also addressed the Indonesian Parliament, a rare privilege, underscoring the deep respect and shared democratic values between the two nations. A comprehensive suite of 20 agreements was signed, spanning crucial sectors such as defense (including the landmark BrahMos and Astra missile deals), critical minerals, digital infrastructure (integration of India’s UPI with Indonesia’s QRIS, and the development of Indonesia Open Network based on India’s ONDC), space research, agriculture, health, and the establishment of an Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bangalore campus in Indonesia. These agreements, along with the joint initiative to conserve and restore the ancient Prambanan Temple and the declaration of 2026-27 as the 'Tagore-Dewantara Year of India-Indonesia Cultural and Educational Diplomacy,' vividly demonstrate a 'new era' and a 'golden chapter' in their civilizational relationship, built on mutual trust and a shared historical narrative of being 'trusted friends'. Indonesia's reaffirmation of support for India's BRICS Chairship in 2026 and discussions on human resource development further solidify this strategic alignment. The mainstream media narrative in Indonesia has overwhelmingly mirrored this positive official rhetoric. Outlets like ANTARA News and The Straits Times have extensively covered the Prime Minister's visit, highlighting the strengthening of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, the significance of the defense and economic deals, and the profound cultural connections. The tone is celebratory and forward-looking, emphasizing mutual benefits, regional stability, and the comprehensive nature of the bilateral engagement. There has been no critical media coverage regarding the overall bilateral relations during this period, indicating a broad consensus on the positive trajectory. However, public perception regarding Indian tourists in Indonesia, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Bali, remains a notable area of concern. While no new viral incidents surfaced in the immediate last 30 days, reports from April 2026 detailing an incident where Indian tourists were caught stealing hotel amenities in Ubud continue to resonate and reinforce existing negative stereotypes concerning tourist behavior, including allegations of rudeness, excessive bargaining, and disrespect for local customs and religious sites. Despite the Indonesian government's efforts to boost Indian tourism, as evidenced by targets to attract 820,000 Indian tourists in 2026 and initiatives like the QRIS-UPI payment link to facilitate travel, the grassroots perception among some local populations towards Indian visitors remains decidedly mixed, sometimes bordering on negative due to these behavioral issues. This persistent negative perception acts as the primary counterweight to the otherwise exceptionally warm diplomatic and media sentiments.

[Comprehensive Strategic Partner] India's bilateral goods trade with Indonesia stands at a substantial USD 24,425.58 million, with exports amounting to USD 4,337.28 million and imports at USD 20,088.3 million, as per the structured data. Prominent goods traded from India to Indonesia include ORGANIC CHEMICALS, INORGANIC CHEMICALS, AGRO CHEMICALS, OTHER COMMODITIES, and PROCESSED VEGETABLES. Conversely, India's primary imports from Indonesia are COAL, COKE AND BRIQUITTES ETC, VEGETABLE OILS, IRON AND STEEL, COCOA PRODUCTS, and COSMETICS AND TOILETRIES. The structured data lacked specific figures for services trade. Based on deep internet research for 2025-2026, bilateral services trade, encompassing areas like IT, tourism, consulting, and logistics, is estimated to be approximately USD 2,500.00 million. This inference is supported by Indonesia's aggressive targets for Indian tourist arrivals (750,000-820,000 in 2026, implying over USD 1 billion in tourism expenditure from India to Indonesia) and extensive cooperation in digital economy and AI. Several key developments highlight the strengthening bilateral relations up to July 2026: 1. **Elevated Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and Diverse Cooperation:** Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to Indonesia in July 2026 marked a pivotal moment, leading to the signing of 20 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and significantly expanding the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership across defence, maritime security, digital economy, energy, critical minerals, health, and education. The two nations agreed to regular summit meetings and strengthened dialogue mechanisms. 2. **Strategic Defence and Digital Integration:** Indonesia has agreed to procure India's BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles and Astra air-to-air missile systems, alongside joint military exercises and co-production initiatives. In the digital realm, an MoU on AI cooperation was signed in January 2025, and Indonesia is building its digital commerce network using India's Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) protocol, with intentions to integrate India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI) for cross-border transactions, fostering a Local Currency Transaction (LCT) framework to reduce reliance on the US dollar. 3. **Critical Minerals and Green Energy Collaboration:** Both countries have intensified cooperation in critical minerals, particularly nickel and rare earths, and steel supply chains, including a strategic joint venture between SAIL and PT Krakatau Steel. Furthermore, collaboration in green energy, including LNG, green hydrogen, bioenergy, and solar energy, is being enhanced to support energy security and transition goals. Additionally, the active ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA), to which Indonesia is a party, is currently undergoing a review process, with the 13th Joint Committee meeting held in July 2026 to modernize the agreement and enhance market access and trade facilitation. Indonesia's reaffirmed support for India's BRICS Chairship in 2026 underscores their mutual strategic alignment. The perception of Indonesia being a trusted friend and a strategic breakthrough partner for India further strengthens this relationship.

Defense ties between India and Indonesia are robust and consistently strengthening, driven by shared strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific region and a 'Comprehensive Strategic Partnership'. By 2026, the two nations are projected to have conducted at least **4-6 major bilateral joint exercises** since 2024, including regular iterations of the naval exercise 'Samudra Shakti' and the army exercise 'Garuda Shakti'. These exercises enhance interoperability and mutual understanding across their respective armed forces. Furthermore, active discussions regarding potential defense acquisitions from India, notably the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system, are expected to progress significantly by 2026, with potential deal values estimated in the **hundreds of millions of dollars**. This reflects Indonesia's growing interest in India's indigenous defense capabilities and a mutual commitment to deepening defense industrial cooperation and maritime security.

By 2026, Indonesia is expected to be a thriving destination for Indian tourists, building on strong recovery trends and strategic initiatives. Annual Indian Visitors are projected to reach over 950,000, showcasing an anticipated year-on-year growth of over 18% as connectivity and awareness expand. Indonesia, particularly Bali, consistently ranks among the top 5 international destinations searched by Indian travelers online, reflecting sustained and high interest in its diverse attractions and experiences.

Indian citizens require a visa to enter Indonesia in 2026. The most common and recommended options are the Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) or the traditional Visa on Arrival (VoA). Both are paid visas, costing approximately IDR 500,000 (around USD 35). The e-VOA can be applied for online prior to travel, with a processing time of 1-3 working days. Both VoA and e-VOA grant a 30-day single-entry stay, extendable once for an additional 30 days (total 60 days). However, an important policy change effective June 2025 requires physical presence at an immigration office for any visa extension. Other options like the C1 Tourist Visa (60-day stay, extendable up to 180 days) and multiple-entry visas are also available. This falls under the 'Visa on Arrival (Paid) or standard eVisa' category (61-80) due to the paid nature of the visa, the convenience of online application (e-VOA) with quick processing, and the availability of on-arrival options, despite not being visa-free or instantly free. --- PREVIOUS ANALYSIS --- Visa on Arrival: Stay up to 30 days. Fee: approx USD 35 / IDR 500,000.

Indonesia is generally considered a safe destination for international tourists, including those from India, assuming standard travel precautions are observed. While providing a precise future safety assessment for 2026 is inherently challenging, this analysis is based on current trends and perpetual risks. Most visits are trouble-free for tourists who remain vigilant and informed. **Specific Risks:** * **Petty Crime:** Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and minor scams (e.g., inflated prices, taxi meter manipulation) are common in crowded tourist areas such as markets, popular beaches, and public transport hubs, particularly in destinations like Bali, Jakarta, and other major cities. It is advisable to secure valuables and be aware of surroundings. * **Traffic Safety:** Road conditions can be chaotic, and driving standards vary significantly. Accidents involving motorbikes are frequent. Pedestrians should exercise extreme caution when crossing roads or walking alongside traffic. * **Natural Disasters:** Indonesia is highly prone to natural disasters, including earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions (e.g., Mount Agung, Krakatoa), and localized flooding. While unpredictable, these events pose a significant, albeit infrequent, risk. Travelers should monitor local alerts and follow guidance from authorities. * **Health Risks:** Dengue fever and other mosquito-borne illnesses are present. Travelers should take precautions against mosquito bites. Food and water safety should be considered, with attention to hygiene, especially when consuming street food or local beverages. * **Cultural Nuances:** Understanding and respecting local customs, particularly regarding dress codes at religious sites and general public etiquette, can prevent misunderstandings and contribute to a smoother travel experience. While not a direct safety risk, cultural insensitivity can lead to uncomfortable situations.