Narendra Modi left Yogyakarta, Indonesia, for Melbourne, Australia, yesterday after completing the Indonesia leg of his multi-nation tour. His departure is the beginning of his overseas tour and is expected to strengthen strategic, economic, and people-to-people relations between India and Australia.
In Indonesia, during his visit, Modi held official engagements to strengthen the bilateral relationship between India and Indonesia. The prime minister’s visit to the Prambanan Temple, the largest Hindu temple complex in Indonesia and a world-renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, was a highlight of the tour.
Visiting Shared Cultural Heritage
At the Prambanan Temple in Yogyakarta, Prime Minister Modi said prayers and looked at the centuries-old architectural marvel, which symbolizes the deep civilizational ties between India and Indonesia.
The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, also features shrines to Lord Vishnu and Lord Brahma. Indian culture has been historically influential in Southeast Asia. Modi’s visit shows that the two countries have a close relationship of culture and history.
The visit was much celebrated as cultural diplomacy and is a reminder of India's commitment to preserving and celebrating shared heritage with countries in the Indo-Pacific.
Next Stop: Melbourne, Australia
After the end of his tour in Indonesia, the prime minister flew on a special aircraft from Yogyakarta to Melbourne.
In Australia, Prime Minister Modi is expected to take part in high-level meetings and discussions aimed at further strengthening the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Cooperation will cover key sectors such as:
Trade and investment
Defence and maritime security
Critical minerals
Renewable energy
Technology and innovation
Education and research
People-to-people exchanges
India and Australia have been expanding cooperation significantly in recent years, and both countries have participated in regional and global forums such as the Quad.
#WATCH | Prime Minister Narendra Modi departs for Melbourne, Australia from Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
— ANI (@ANI) July 8, 2026
(Video: ANI/DD News) pic.twitter.com/2xhPYeabTY
Strengthening Indo-Pacific Cooperation
The Prime Minister’s overseas trip is in line with India’s continued push to engage with partners in the Indo-Pacific region in a more strategic manner. Indonesia and Australia are India’s top strategic partners and play crucial roles in regional security, economic growth, and maritime cooperation.
His diplomatic engagements will strengthen bilateral ties while promoting common goals such as a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.
As Prime Minister Modi begins the Australia leg of his visit, attention will now be focused on the outcomes of his meetings in Melbourne and the initiatives that can emerge from the discussions between the two countries.
