Our Bureau
New Delhi
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto graced India’s 76th Republic Day celebrations as the chief guest. This year’s event is particularly significant as it coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Indonesia, underscoring the importance of bilateral ties in Southeast Asia.
The Republic Day parade, took place at Rajpath in New Delhi, which featured a grand display of India’s cultural heritage and military prowess. The theme for this year’s celebrations, “Swarnim Bharat – Virasat aur Vikas,” emphasized the nation’s rich history and its ongoing journey towards development. The parade showcased a 160-member marching contingent from Indonesia, along with various tableaux representing different states, highlighting India’s unity in diversity.
President Subianto’s visit is expected to strengthen the strategic partnership between India and Indonesia, particularly in areas such as defense, trade, and counter-terrorism. Both nations have been working closely to enhance cooperation in regional security and economic development, making this visit timely and relevant.
The tradition of inviting foreign dignitaries to the Republic Day celebrations began in 1950 with the first chief guest, the then President of Indonesia, Sukarno. Over the years, this practice has included a diverse array of global leaders. Notable past guests include French President Emmanuel Macron in 2024 and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in 2023. These visits not only symbolize friendship but also serve as a platform for discussing critical global issues.
In recent years, the selection of chief guests has sometimes been influenced by geopolitical considerations. For instance, the pandemic led to cancellations and adjustments in guest lists for the celebrations in 2021 and 2022. However, the return to inviting high-profile leaders reflects a renewed commitment to international diplomacy.
During his visit, President Subianto has engaged in discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on enhancing trade relations and addressing regional security challenges.
