Terrorism on agenda during PM Modi's Indonesia visit

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to leave for Indonesia on Tuesday for a two-day visit, Indian Ambassador to the country on Monday said both countries are looking for joint-cooperation to counter terrorism.

Speaking to ANI, Pradeep Kumar Rawat said, "Both India and Indonesia face similar challenges. Our position against the scourge of terrorism is clear. We believe in both softer and harder approaches in tackling this issue."

The envoy further said the Prime Minister Modi's maiden visit to Indonesia assumes significance as Indonesia is one of India's closest maritime neighbours and shares a deep historical and cultural connection.

"It (Indonesia) is our largest trading partner and the largest economy in Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). We have invested 15 billion US dollars in Indonesia's economy. So, Prime Minister Modi's first ever visit to the country assumes much greater significance," Rawat said.

Talking about the Act East policy, the envoy explained, "The government's Act East Policy acquires a very important place. Bilateral relations have multiple dimensions. The Act East Policy focuses on the extended neighbourhood in the Asia-Pacific region."

Speaking of the high number of Indians visiting Indonesia, Rawat said the number of tourists coming to Indonesia touched over 4,000 last year and in 2018, it is expected to touch at least 7,000 people.

Prime Minister Modi's maiden visit to the country comes after Indonesia's President Joko Widodo visited New Delhi in December 2016 and was among the 10 ASEAN heads of state to come to New Delhi as the chief guest for India's Republic Day parade earlier this year. Their personnel rapport can help in bringing the two countries together."

Delving into the schedule of Prime Minister Modi's visit to Indonesia, the envoy said the Prime Minister will arrive in Jakarta on Tuesday evening.

Prime Minister Modi and President Widodo will have a number of engagements, where they are expected to hold discussions on wide-ranging issues of mutual interests. The two leaders will also participate in a public activity.

President Widodo will also host a banquet for Prime Minister Modi as well.

The Prime Minister will leave Indonesia for Singapore on May 31, which will be his second official visit.

He will deliver the key note address at Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on June 1.