The presence of Indonesia's President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono as chief guest at the 62nd Republic Day celebrations in India in January marks a major milestone in the long history of Indonesia-India relations. This development could have repercussions beyond the two countries' immediate borders. India selects carefully whom it wants to be the chief guest each year, and the choice of which foreign leader reflects the importance New Delhi attaches to its relations with that country. By extending this year's invitation to Yudhoyono, New Delhi is clearly signaling that it wants to develop closer relations with Jakarta. In response, Yudhoyono reciprocated the gesture by gracing New Delhi with his presence. Endy Bayuni comments on the reinvigoration of Indonesia-India relations.

The views expressed in this publication are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the policy or position of the East-West Center or any organization with which the author is affiliated.

Additional titles in the Asia Pacific Bulletin series