The signing ceremony took place at the Prime Minister’s House after President Subianto held one-on-one and delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Ministers from both sides exchanged pre-signed agreements and Memorandums of Understanding during the event.
One of the most notable developments was an agreement for the mutual recognition of higher education degrees and certifications between Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission and Indonesia’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology. The two sides also formalised an agreement establishing the Indonesian Aid Scholarships for Pakistani students.
Cooperation was further broadened through MoUs on Halal trade and certification, small and medium enterprise development, archival collaboration, health sector partnership, and joint efforts to counter drug trafficking.
During the bilateral discussions, the two countries agreed to strengthen collaboration in trade, agriculture, education, vocational training, culture and healthcare.
Speaking at a joint press briefing, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said both sides had reviewed ways to reduce Pakistan’s trade imbalance with Indonesia. He noted that current trade stands at 4.5 billion dollars and is heavily in Indonesia’s favour. He added that Pakistan aims to increase exports of agricultural products and IT services to bridge the gap.
Sharif also announced that Pakistan is ready to provide Indonesia with trained doctors, dentists and medical professionals to support its healthcare needs.
Marking seventy five years of diplomatic relations, the Prime Minister said the milestone would be celebrated in a befitting manner. He praised Indonesia for its steadfast support to Pakistan during the 1965 war, noting that the relationship continues to be defined by brotherhood, trust and mutual respect.
President Subianto reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to deepening economic cooperation and accelerating efforts to rebalance bilateral trade. He also appreciated Pakistan’s offer to assist in Indonesia’s health sector.
He pointed to shared diplomatic positions between the two countries, especially their consistent support for a peaceful two-state solution in Palestine. He expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality and for the honour of having his aircraft escorted by Pakistan Air Force fighter jets upon arrival.
President Subianto extended an invitation to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to visit Indonesia at mutually convenient dates.
