India is reportedly urging Indonesian President Joko Widodo to reconsider plans to club his upcoming Republic Day visit with a trip to Pakistan. The diplomatic effort underscores India’s sensitivity to its relationship with Indonesia, a key partner in the Indo-Pacific region, and its broader strategic concerns in the region.
According to sources, New Delhi has expressed its preference for the Indonesian leader to focus solely on his visit to India for the Republic Day celebrations, where he is expected to be the chief guest. Officials fear that coupling the visit with a trip to Pakistan could dilute the significance of the occasion and inadvertently send mixed signals.
“India and Indonesia share a robust partnership rooted in shared democratic values, economic cooperation, and cultural ties. The Republic Day invitation is a reflection of this deep bond, and we hope the focus remains on enhancing bilateral ties during this visit,” a government source stated.
Experts note that while leaders often balance engagements in the region, India is keen to emphasize the uniqueness of its ties with Indonesia, especially amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics in South Asia. A joint visit to India and Pakistan by a high-profile leader could potentially shift the narrative or draw unnecessary comparisons, which India aims to avoid.
The Indonesian president’s visit is seen as an opportunity to strengthen collaboration in areas such as trade, maritime security, and regional stability. The ongoing dialogue highlights the importance of careful diplomacy in managing perceptions and fostering stronger bilateral relationships.
