President Prabowo Presents Angklung to PM Narendra Modi in Warm Diplomatic Exchange
A warm atmosphere marked the meeting between Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the latter’s state visit to the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Tuesday (07/07).
On the occasion, President Prabowo presented a set of angklung as a meaningful diplomatic gift.
In a written statement, Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya explained that the gift formed part of Indonesia’s cultural diplomacy.
“On the sidelines of the meeting, President Prabowo presented Prime Minister Narendra Modi with a diplomatic gift in the form of a set of angklung. The angklung, a traditional musical instrument from West Java, symbolizes friendship and the richness of Indonesia’s cultural heritage,” the Cabinet Secretary wrote.
While presenting the angklung, President Prabowo delivered a brief message to Prime Minister Modi. “For your collection, Sir” the President said.
Prime Minister Modi accepted the gift with a warm smile, expressing his appreciation for the thoughtful gesture. The occasion became even more memorable when the two leaders personally tried playing the angklung together.
With broad smiles, President Prabowo and Prime Minister Modi gently shook the instruments in their hands. The distinctive sound of the angklung filled the room, creating a relaxed atmosphere amid the formal state visit.
The moment became even more delightful when the melody of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (an Indian song) was played on the angklung. Prime Minister Modi smiled broadly as he joined in, while President Prabowo applauded appreciatively, adding to the warm and friendly atmosphere.
Afterwards, Prime Minister Modi expressed his gratitude to President Prabowo for the gift. The simple yet meaningful exchange reflected how the relationship between Indonesia and India is built not only through strategic cooperation in politics, the economy, and defense, but also through cultural diplomacy that deepens the friendship between the two nations. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (RIF/TM)
