Indonesia has conferred its highest civilian honour, the Bintang Adipurna medal, on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto presented the award to PM Modi, marking a new high point in the steadily deepening ties between the two nations.
What S. Jaishankar said
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar took to social media platform X to mark the occasion, saying the conferment of the Bintang Adipurna medal on PM Modi is a matter of immense pride for every Indian. He described it as a testament to PM Modi's steadfast efforts to deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between India and Indonesia and to strengthen India's standing on the world stage.
Key agreements signed between India and Indonesia
The visit also saw the two countries firm up several significant agreements. These include arrangements for the export of Astra and BrahMos missiles, a plan for the joint development of Sabang Port, an initiative to link the UPI and QRIS payment systems, and steps to secure supply chains for nickel and rare earth minerals. Together, these agreements are set to shape cooperation between the two nations in defence, trade and digital payments.
Modi's tally of foreign honours now at 34
With the Bintang Adipurna, PM Modi has now received a total of 34 honours from foreign countries. PM Modi dedicated the award to 1.4 billion Indians. Indonesia had previously conferred this same highest civilian honour on Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, underlining the significance of the recognition given to PM Modi.
Public reaction
Reactions on social media to the news were mixed. While many users congratulated PM Modi and called the honour a proud moment for India, others questioned what tangible benefit ordinary Indians gain from the foreign awards he receives during his overseas visits.
