PM says three-Nation Indo-Pacific tour aimed at expanding strategic, economic ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said his three-nation visit to Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand is aimed at deepening India’s economic and strategic partnerships with key Indo-Pacific countries while creating greater opportunities for the country’s youth.

Ahead of his departure, the Prime Minister said the visit would focus on strengthening cooperation with three important developmental partners as India continues to expand its engagement across the Indo-Pacific region.

“Over the next few days, I will be attending various programmes in Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand. The aim of these meetings would be to boost economic and strategic cooperation with these valued developmental partners and ensure the youth of our nation get more opportunities in the times to come,” Modi said.

The visit is expected to feature bilateral meetings with the leaders of the three countries, discussions on trade and investment, defence and maritime cooperation, technology, education, clean energy and people-to-people exchanges. The tour also underscores New Delhi’s efforts to reinforce its role as a key stakeholder in the Indo-Pacific amid evolving geopolitical and economic dynamics.

Indonesia is a strategic maritime partner and an influential member of ASEAN, while Australia has emerged as one of India’s closest strategic partners through growing cooperation in defence, critical minerals, education and the Quad framework. New Zealand, meanwhile, has been seeking to expand economic engagement with India, with both countries exploring greater collaboration in trade, agriculture, innovation and education.

The Prime Minister’s emphasis on creating opportunities for Indian youth reflects the government’s broader push to leverage international partnerships for employment, skill development, technology transfer and investment. Officials said the visit is expected to result in discussions on enhancing business linkages, fostering innovation ecosystems and strengthening cooperation in emerging sectors that can generate long-term economic benefits for both India and its partners.

The three-nation tour is also expected to reaffirm India’s commitment to a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific, while advancing its Act East policy and strengthening ties with like-minded countries in the region.