G20: PM Modi, Indonesian President Widodo discuss Indo-Pacific cooperation

Prime Minister Modi also congratulated Indonesia for taking over as the next G20 president.The Prime Minister in a tweet said: “Glad to have met President @jokowi earlier today. Discussed existing areas of India-Indonesia cooperation and new spheres where our countries can work together for the benefit of our citizens and the entire planet.”

An MEA statement said: “Prime Minister Modi congratulated Indonesia for its G20 Presidency next year, and assured him of India’s readiness to work closely with the country as part of Troika."

Both leaders held talks on the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and appreciated each other’s steadfast support during the COVID-19 pandemic. They agreed to cooperate towards post-pandemic recovery and emphasized the importance of Indo-Pacific cooperation.

“Both leaders committed to strengthen bilateral trade and investment between the two countries, and pave way for greater people-to-people interaction,” the statement said.

“Discussions also took place on combating climate change, particularly on the need for implementation of climate finance commitments."

The Prime Minister’s Office said in a tweet on the talks said that “Strong relations with Indonesia is a key part of India’s ‘Act East’ policy and ‘SAGAR’ vision. Ways to improve economic linkages and cultural cooperation figured prominently during the talks."

Indonesia will take over the G20 chair from Italy, while India will hold the G20 presidency from December 1, 2022, and convene the G20 leaders' summit in 2023 for the first time. India will join both Italy and Indonesia as the “G-20 troika” which comprises past, present and future chairs of G-20.