India-Indonesia Ties: During the Iran-Iraq War, the entire world witnessed the power and importance of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz, creating global oil havoc. Learning from this, India is now set to working with Indonesia to build its own Strait of Hormuz-like sea route in the Indian Ocean. This ship route is located at the entry point of the Strait of Malacca. Indira Point, located in India's Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is just 100 miles away. The move by India and Indonesia is seen as a strategy to curb Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean.
India And Indonesia Will Jointly Develop Sabang Port
India and Indonesia have taken a significant step towards advancing their maritime strategy by developing Sabang Port. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his visit to Indonesia, signed a key agreement with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to jointly develop and modernise Indonesia's Sabang port, thereby increasing India's presence on the island.
Why Is Sabang Port Significant?
It's location at the entry point of the Malacca Strait, one of the world's busiest and most strategic sea routes, makes it strategically significant. Furthermore, Sabang Port is only 100 miles from India's Great Nicobar Port project, which is crucial from India's perspective.
The Importance Of Malacca for India
The Malacca Strait connects the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea. 25 per cent of global trade passes through it, including coal, palm oil, Chinese goods, and oil. Its economic and strategic importance to India is significant. A major portion of India's trade with China, Japan, and South Korea passes through this route. It is a lifeline for India's petroleum, coal, machinery, and container trade.
Additionally, it plays a crucial role in connecting with Southeast Asia under the "Act East Policy." Therefore, India will now jointly develop Sabang Island, located at the mouth of the Malacca Strait, with Indonesia.
PM Modi's Jibe At China
Addressing the Indonesian Parliament, PM Modi targeted China without naming names. The PM said India is a country in the world that follows the policy of development, not expansionism, and that is why in India we say "Sabka Saath - Sabka Vikas." "Today, I have come among all the Indonesian MPs with the same mantra and spirit," he asserted.
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Important Agreements Between India And Indonesia
- India will develop Indonesia's Sabang Port
- India will help Indonesia manufacture EVMs
- Indonesia will purchase BrahMos and Astra missiles in the defence sector
- Rare Earth Materials Project
- UPI Payment System
- Agreed to expand cooperation in AI
- Digital Public Infrastructure
- Telecommunications
- Space and other future areas
(With Jagran.com inputs)
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