Pakistan and Indonesia today committed to expediting practical measures to rebalance a bilateral trade relationship currently valued at $4.5 billion and heavily skewed in Jakarta’s favour, following a high-level meeting between the two nations’ leaders.
The understanding was reached during discussions between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto in the capital. In a subsequent joint press stakeout, both leaders confirmed their intention to address the trade disparity.
Prime Minister Sharif detailed that the two sides discussed collective strategies to balance the trade volume through increased exports of agricultural products and information technology services from Pakistan to the Southeast Asian nation.
In a significant move to enhance cooperation in the health sector, Pakistan has agreed to send its doctors, dentists, medical professionals, and other related experts to Indonesia to help fulfill its domestic requirements.
President Subianto acknowledged and expressed gratitude for Pakistan”s willingness to supply medical personnel, affirming that both nations look forward to enhancing bilateral cooperation in education, agriculture, and other areas of mutual interest.
The leaders noted that President Subianto”s visit coincides with the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. The Prime Minister expressed Pakistan”s strong desire to commemorate the occasion in a befitting manner, recalling how Indonesia “stood by Pakistan like a rock wall” during its 1965 war with a neighbouring country.
On foreign policy, President Subianto confirmed that the two countries coordinate closely and share a common stance on the Palestine issue. He reiterated support for a two-state solution, stating that Pakistan and Indonesia will always maintain a unified position on the matter.
Prime Minister Sharif expressed confidence that the presidential visit would elevate the “brotherly relations to a much higher level,” emphasizing a joint commitment to promoting progress and peace for their countries and the wider region.
President Subianto, who was escorted by PAF JF-17 Thunder fighter jets upon his arrival, thanked the government and people of Pakistan for the warm reception. He extended an invitation to Prime Minister Sharif to visit Indonesia at a mutually convenient time.