ISLAMABAD, Tuesday, December 9, 2025 (WNP): In a powerful show of diplomatic warmth and shared vision, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on Tuesday reaffirmed their commitment to elevate Pakistan–Indonesia relations through stronger trade, wider sectoral partnerships, and closer coordination on pressing regional and global issues — including the humanitarian crisis in Palestine.

Speaking at a joint press stakeout at the Prime Minister’s House, Prime Minister Shehbaz said both sides had agreed to boost bilateral trade — currently valued at US$4.5 billion — and take concrete steps to balance the trade equation. Noting that more than 90 percent of the trade comprised palm oil imports from Indonesia, he said Pakistan was ready to expand its exports, especially in agriculture, information technology, and other potential growth sectors.

The prime minister announced Pakistan’s readiness to support Indonesia’s expanding healthcare needs by sending doctors, dentists, medical professors, and other specialists. “Whatever is possible for us in this regard, we will do it without delay,” he assured.

Shehbaz Sharif underlined the decades-old bond between the two nations, reminding that the relationship predates Pakistan’s independence. He highlighted Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s historic support for Indonesia’s independence and Jakarta’s solidarity with Pakistan during the 1965 war.

The prime minister also lauded Indonesia’s principled stance on Gaza, calling for urgent global action to halt the ongoing humanitarian tragedy. He said he was confident that President Prabowo’s visit would “take relations to new heights.”

President Prabowo thanked Pakistan for its warm and dignified welcome, noting with appreciation that his aircraft was escorted by Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Thunder jets upon arrival. He described the bilateral meeting with PM Shehbaz as “highly productive,” adding that both countries reached understanding across key sectors, including trade, education, agriculture, and science and technology.

Calling Islam a religion of moderation, tolerance, and inclusivity, President Prabowo said Pakistan and Indonesia enjoyed a historic bond that continued to deepen. He welcomed Pakistan’s offer to support Indonesia’s health sector, describing it as “strategic and critically important.” He said he had directed his ministers to accelerate practical cooperation with Pakistan across multiple fields.

The Indonesian president reaffirmed close coordination between the two countries on foreign policy matters, particularly regarding Gaza and the broader Palestinian cause. He reiterated Indonesia’s firm support for a two-state solution and praised the active engagement between the foreign ministers of both countries.

Concluding his remarks, President Prabowo expressed optimism about the future of bilateral relations and extended an invitation to Prime Minister Shehbaz to undertake an official visit to Indonesia to advance their shared agenda of cooperation.