‘India Shouldn’t Be The Only Country You Visit’: Putin Invited To Indonesia With A Joke – What’s The Real Message | World News

New Delhi: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto extended a formal invitation to Russian President Vladimir Putin for a state visit on Wednesday, adding a light-hearted remark that India should not be the only country he travels to. The meeting of the two leaders took place in Moscow. This was their second meeting in Russia this year and showed increasing interaction between the two countries.

At the meeting, Prabowo said to Putin, “I would like to take this opportunity to invite you to visit Indonesia at a convenient time. Maybe in 2026 or 2027. We would be happy to host you in our country. India should not be the only country you visit.”

This comment reportedly made the Russian president laugh and signaled a friendly relationship between the two leaders.

Prabowo’s visit to Moscow comes on the heels of Putin’s high-profile visit to India, where he held extensive talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This visit was considered a public demonstration of the strength of India-Russia relations. This comes at a time of increased international scrutiny, especially after the US stepped up pressure after India imposed a 50 per cent tariff on Russian oil under the Trump administration.

During his visit to India, Putin was welcomed with a grand ceremony at Palam Airport, including a guard of honor and a red carpet reception led by Prime Minister Modi. The talks covered a wide range of issues, including defense cooperation, energy partnerships, trade and broader geopolitical issues.

Analysts saw the talks as a signal of a long-term partnership between India and Russia amid shifting global alliances.

The timing of Prabowo’s trip to Moscow is important. It underlines Indonesia’s interest in strengthening ties with Russia while maintaining balance in its foreign policy.

The invitation also highlights Indonesia’s intention to expand diplomatic relations with global powers beyond its immediate region.

Observers say the friendly exchange between the leaders reflects not only diplomatic courtesy but also strategic signaling. By emphasizing that India should not be the only country Putin should visit, Indonesia is strengthening its position on the global stage and encouraging Moscow to strengthen bilateral relations with Southeast Asia.

The meeting also revealed that Russia continues to reach out to multiple partners and reinforced Moscow’s intention to diversify its diplomatic and economic engagements beyond its traditional allies. Both countries agreed to explore opportunities for cooperation in trade, technology and defense, laying the foundation for a future state visit that could further strengthen Indonesia-Russia relations.