ISLAMABAD, Wednesday, August 13, 2025 (WNP): The Consortium for Asia-Pacific Studies (CAPS) on Wednesday hosted a joint Independence Day celebration for Pakistan and Indonesia at its office, bringing together diplomats, researchers, and cultural representatives to strengthen bilateral linkages.

The event, moderated by Sharjeel Siddiqui, opened with welcoming remarks by CAPS President Dr. Khuram Iqbal, who congratulated both nations on their independence anniversaries.

He highlighted the shared struggles and aspirations of Pakistan and Indonesia, stressing that such milestones offer opportunities to reflect on history and reaffirm commitments to stronger bilateral cooperation. He reiterated CAPS’s mission of advancing people-to-people connections, cultural exchanges, and collaborative projects across the Asia-Pacific region.

Speaking on the occasion, Rahmat Hindiarta Kusuma, Coordinator of Social and Cultural Affairs at the Indonesian Embassy, underscored the historical and religious ties between the two Muslim-majority nations. He noted Indonesia’s growing role as a global tourist destination and pointed to an increase in Indonesian visitors to Pakistan for cultural and religious purposes, including Sufi pilgrimages.

Sharing his personal experience, Kusuma praised Pakistan’s hospitality and natural beauty. He stressed the need to deepen people-to-people (P2P) and business-to-business (B2B) interactions, encouraging more frequent meetings during official visits. Announcing a Pakistan-Indonesia business event in Jakarta this October, he urged Pakistani entrepreneurs to actively explore opportunities in Indonesia.

The celebration featured a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony led jointly by Dr. Khuram and Kusuma, followed by joint singing performances by the CAPS team and Indonesian interns. The event concluded with a food reception, where participants enjoyed traditional dishes from both Pakistani and Indonesian cuisines.

The gathering underscored the importance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening bilateral relations while paving the way for new avenues of cooperation between Pakistan and Indonesia.