INDIA-INDONESIA
India and Indonesia share a warm and cordial relationship that stretches back for almost two millennia. Here's a glimpse into various aspects of this enduring bond:
Historical and Cultural Ties
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Ancient Linkages: The connection between the two nations goes back to the early centuries of the Common Era, marked by trade, cultural exchange, and the spread of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam. Epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata hold significance in Indonesian folk art and dramas, reflecting the deep cultural influence
- Shared Colonial Experience: Both countries endured colonial rule by the British and Dutch, respectively, fostering solidarity in their struggles for independence. Leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Sukarno played key roles in laying the foundation for a strong partnership
Key Aspects of India-Indonesia relationship
India and Indonesia share a diplomatic relationship that is characterized by historical ties, cultural connections, and growing economic and strategic cooperation.
Here are some key aspects of the India-Indonesia relationship:
- India and Indonesia have historical and cultural connections dating back centuries. Both countries have been influenced by Indian civilization, and there are shared cultural elements, including language, art, and religion
- India and Indonesia formally established diplomatic relations in 1950. Since then, the two countries have maintained friendly and cooperative ties, with frequent high-level visits and exchanges
- Economic ties between India and Indonesia have been expanding. Both countries are members of the ASEAN-India Free Trade Area, which has contributed to the growth of bilateral trade. Efforts have been made to enhance economic cooperation, including in areas such as investment, technology, and infrastructure development
- In 2005, India and Indonesia elevated their relationship to a Strategic Partnership, reflecting the shared interests in areas such as maritime security, counter-terrorism, and defense cooperation. Both countries are members of regional forums like the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the East Asia Summit
- Given their strategic locations in the Indian Ocean and the importance of maritime security, India and Indonesia have worked on enhancing maritime cooperation. This includes joint naval exercises, information sharing, and collaboration on issues related to the Indo-Pacific region
- India and Indonesia engage in cultural exchanges to promote understanding and appreciation of each other's cultures. This includes educational programs, art exhibitions, and other initiatives to strengthen people-to-people ties
- Both countries collaborate on regional and global issues, including climate change, counter-terrorism, and sustainable development. They often coordinate their positions in international forums to address common challenges
Indonesia’s vision as a “Global Maritime Axis.” and it’s significance for India
Indonesia's vision of a "Global Maritime Axis" is a strategic approach that underscores the country's commitment to leveraging its maritime geography for economic development, security, and regional influence. This vision, also known as the "Maritime Fulcrum Doctrine," was introduced by President Joko Widodo and is aimed at positioning Indonesia as a major maritime power.
The significance of Indonesia's Global Maritime Axis vision for India can be understood in several key aspects:
- Given their geographical proximity and shared maritime interests, Indonesia's emphasis on maritime development aligns with India's own priorities in the Indian Ocean region. Both countries recognize the importance of maritime security, trade, and connectivity for their economic prosperity
- Indonesia's focus on maritime development opens up opportunities for economic cooperation between the two countries. Enhanced maritime connectivity can facilitate smoother trade routes, leading to increased economic collaboration, investments, and joint ventures in various sectors
- Both India and Indonesia are situated in the Indo-Pacific region, which has become a focal point for geopolitical and economic activities. Indonesia's vision aligns with India's "Act East" policy and provides a framework for regional cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, promoting stability and shared economic growth
- As both countries face challenges related to maritime security and counterterrorism, their cooperation within the framework of Indonesia's Global Maritime Axis vision becomes crucial. Collaborative efforts can include joint patrols, intelligence sharing, and capacity building to address common security threats
- Indonesia's focus on maritime development contributes to stability in the Indian Ocean region. This is particularly significant for India, which has a keen interest in maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean as a vital maritime passage for trade.
- Indonesia's vision involves substantial investments in maritime infrastructure, including ports, shipping, and coastal development. This presents opportunities for India to engage in infrastructure projects, fostering connectivity and economic integration in the region.
- Both India and Indonesia actively participate in various multilateral forums, such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the East Asia Summit. Indonesia's vision aligns with India's efforts to collaborate within these forums to address regional challenges and promote sustainable development
- Indonesia's Global Maritime Axis vision emphasizes the importance of cultural and people-to-people ties. This provides an avenue for enhanced cultural exchanges, tourism, and educational collaborations between India and Indonesia
Indian Community in Indonesia
Approximately 100,000 individuals of Indian descent reside in Indonesia, predominantly in areas like Greater Jakarta, Medan, Surabaya, and Bandung. Their main occupations involve participation in the textile and sporting goods trade. Additionally, within the population of 10,000 Indian nationals living in Indonesia, there are professionals such as engineers, consultants, chartered accountants, and bankers.
The Indian community in Indonesia is esteemed and prosperous, with members holding key positions in both local and multinational companies. In August 2012, the Embassy established the Indian Cultural Forum (ICF), a collective organization comprising thirty-one social groups of Indian origin.
The Indian community in Indonesia is a diverse and vibrant group that has been present in the archipelago for many years.
Here are some key points about the Indian community in Indonesia:
- Indians have a long history of trade and cultural exchange with Indonesia that dates back to ancient times. Indian merchants, traders, and settlers played a significant role in the region's maritime trade routes
- Indian culture, particularly Hindu and Buddhist influences, has left a lasting impact on Indonesia. This is evident in elements such as architecture, art, dance, and traditional ceremonies, especially in places like Bali and Java
- The contemporary Indian community in Indonesia is diverse and includes professionals, businesspeople, academics, and expatriates. While the Indian expatriate community is not as large as in some other countries, it is a visible and active part of Indonesia's multicultural society.
- Many Indians in Indonesia work in various professional fields, including information technology, finance, academics, and healthcare. Jakarta, the capital city, is a hub for expatriates and professionals from different countries, including India
- The Indian community in Indonesia is often involved in cultural and social activities. Cultural organizations, clubs, and events help maintain a sense of community and provide a platform for cultural exchange
- The Indian community in Indonesia is religiously diverse. While there are Hindus among the Indian diaspora, there are also individuals practicing other religions, including Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, and others
- The presence of the Indian community contributes to the strengthening of bilateral ties between India and Indonesia. People-to-people connections play a role in fostering understanding and cooperation between the two nations
- Indian cuisine is popular in Indonesia, and there are Indian restaurants in major cities, offering a variety of dishes. Indian food has found a place among the diverse culinary options available in the country
- Events such as Diwali, Holi, and other Indian festivals are celebrated by the Indian community in Indonesia. These celebrations often involve cultural performances, traditional rituals, and social gatherings
