INDIA, RAKYAT NEWS – Indonesia and India have entered a significant partnership aimed at enhancing digital cooperation through cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). The formal agreement was sealed with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (Kemkomdigi) and India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).

The collaboration focuses on several key areas, including the development of advanced technologies like AI and IoT, the improvement of digital infrastructure such as digital identities, and the enhancement of human resources in the Information Technology sector. This agreement marks a crucial step in fostering deeper technological and economic ties between the two nations.

Minister of Communication and Information Technology, Meutya Hafid, emphasized that this collaboration goes beyond just technology. “This is a joint effort to connect people, overcome geographical boundaries, and promote innovation that meets societal needs,” she said. The initiative aims to drive progress in various sectors by utilizing digital technologies for the benefit of citizens in both countries.

A key component of this partnership is the establishment of a Joint Working Group (JWG), which will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of the agreement. The group will meet regularly to monitor progress, address challenges, and develop solutions as needed to ensure the collaboration’s success.

The creation of the JWG is vital to ensure the smooth execution of the agreed-upon projects and facilitate continuous dialogue between the governments of Indonesia and India. This initiative underscores the importance of effective communication and problem-solving in large-scale international collaborations.

In addition to technological advancements, the agreement also focuses on the development of digital infrastructure. One of the key goals is to strengthen public digital services, including digital identity systems, which are critical to ensuring secure online transactions and interactions for citizens in both countries.

Minister Hafid further highlighted the importance of cross-sectoral collaboration between governments, the private sector, and civil society. She believes this approach is essential for addressing global challenges and opening new opportunities for future generations, particularly in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

The signing ceremony took place on January 25, 2025, during a visit by Indonesia’s Defense Minister, Prabowo Subianto, to India. It was attended by India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

This historic partnership marks the beginning of a new chapter in digital collaboration between the two countries, with the potential to shape the future of technology and innovation. (Uki Ruknuddin)0