Indonesia president Prabowo Subianto to be Republic Day guest

NEW DELHI: India officially announced on Thursday Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto's state visit from Jan 25-26, confirming he will also be the chief guest for India's 76th Republic Day celebrations. "This will be President Prabowo's first visit to India in his capacity as president, after assuming office in Oct 2024," said govt.

India and Indonesia share warm and friendly ties spanning over millenia, said the govt. "As a Comprehensive Strategic Partner, Indonesia is an important pillar in India's Act East Policy and our vision of the Indo-Pacific," it said.

"The forthcoming state visit of President Prabowo will provide an opportunity for the leaders to undertake a comprehensive review of bilateral ties as well as to discuss regional and global issues of mutual interest," added govt.

The announcement about the visit was delayed amid reports that the president was planning to travel directly to Pakistan after being honoured by India on Republic Day. India had raised the issue diplomatically with Jakarta, saying this was unacceptable.