ISLAMABAD—Pakistan and Indonesia have cemented a new chapter in their bilateral relations by signing a series of crucial agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) during a high-profile ceremony at the Prime Minister’s House. The agreements, signed during the landmark visit of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, are designed to strengthen cooperation across key sectors between the two fraternal Islamic nations.
Upon President Subianto’s arrival at the Prime Minister’s House, he was received by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and presented with a Guard of Honor. The formal ceremony was followed by a comprehensive delegation-level meeting, which included Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Federal Cabinet ministers, and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.
Economic Focus and Trade Deals
The MoUs signed witnessed by the two leaders cover diverse areas critical for national development, including Halal trade, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), higher education, counter-narcotics measures, and the health sector.
The leaders expressed satisfaction with the progress in bilateral trade but stressed the need to address the trade imbalance and expand its volume. They agreed to initiate a review of the Indonesia-Pakistan Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA), valued at approximately $4 billion, to unlock its full potential.
Investment, Defense, and Global Issues
Emphasis was placed on enhancing collaboration between Pakistan’s Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) and Indonesia’s Sovereign Wealth Fund to boost investment and joint ventures. Furthermore, following a meeting between President Subianto and Field Marshal Asim Munir, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to reinforcing defense and security cooperation.
Prime Minister Sharif praised President Prabowo’s public welfare initiative, the ‘Free Nutritious Meals Program,’ and both agreed to explore avenues for collaboration in the health sector, including the exchange of medical experts.
The leaders also addressed pressing regional and global challenges, notably the situations in Kashmir and Gaza. They jointly reaffirmed their commitment to resolving conflicts in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions. Notably, Prime Minister Sharif acknowledged and appreciated President Prabowo’s proactive diplomatic and humanitarian efforts in Gaza, particularly his role in advancing ceasefire arrangements and ensuring the delivery of crucial aid.
