Q. Consider the following statements:
1.The India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, established in 2018, has led to increased cooperation in defence and maritime security cooperation.
2.Indonesia’s strategic importance closely aligns with India’s Neighbourhood First Policy.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
Explanations –
Statement 1 is correct. India and Indonesia elevated their bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in May 2018. This partnership has significantly enhanced cooperation in defense and maritime security, including joint naval exercises like Samudra Shakti, coordinated patrols, and agreements on maritime security. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s will visit to India as the chief guest for the 76th Republic Day celebrations on January 26, 2025.
Statement 2 is incorrect. Indonesia is not part of India’s immediate neighbourhood, which is the focus of the Neighbourhood First Policy. Instead, Indonesia is a key partner under India’s Act East Policy and its Indo-Pacific strategy, aimed at strengthening ties with Southeast Asian nations and countering China’s influence.
Source: The Hindu
