Prime Minister Narendra Modi began a three-country diplomatic tour on Monday, visiting Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand with the aim of strengthening India’s strategic partnerships and expanding cooperation across the Indo-Pacific. The visit is expected to reinforce India’s Act East Policy and MAHASAGAR Vision while promoting a free, open, and inclusive regional order. Through a series of high-level meetings, Modi will focus on enhancing collaboration in trade, defense, technology, education, and cultural exchanges.
The first stop on the itinerary is Indonesia, where Modi is visiting from July 6 to July 8 at the invitation of President Prabowo Subianto. The trip marks the Indian prime minister’s first bilateral visit since both nations elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during his 2018 visit. Modi noted that President Prabowo’s participation as the chief guest at India’s Republic Day celebrations in January 2025 reflected the growing strength of bilateral ties.
Highlighting the longstanding historical relationship between India and Indonesia, Modi said both countries share deep cultural roots and vibrant people-to-people connections. He expressed confidence that the visit would broaden cooperation across multiple sectors while opening new avenues for future engagement. During his stay, the prime minister is also scheduled to meet members of the Indian diaspora and visit the historic Prambanan Temple complex in Yogyakarta alongside President Prabowo. The temple, he said, symbolizes the enduring cultural links connecting the two nations.
Following Indonesia, Modi will travel to Melbourne for discussions with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The leaders are expected to review progress under the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and identify new opportunities for cooperation in defense, security, trade, investment, education, skilled mobility, and emerging technologies. Sports and sports science are also expected to feature in the talks. Modi will additionally engage with the Indian community in Australia, describing the diaspora as a vital contributor to the strong relationship between the two countries.
The final destination of the tour is New Zealand, where Modi will meet Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in Auckland. Building on Luxon’s visit to India in 2025, both leaders are expected to discuss ways to expand economic and commercial engagement, including implementation of the recently signed Free Trade Agreement. Modi also plans to address members of the Indian diaspora, recognizing their contributions to strengthening bilateral ties. He said the overall tour would further advance India’s regional outreach while reinforcing cooperation and stability across the Indo-Pacific.
