ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Indonesia have agreed that their relationship continues to rest on shared values and long-standing goodwill and expressed the intent to work more closely for peace, stability and prosperity.
The understanding to this effect came at a meeting between President Asif Ai Zardari and President of Indonesia Prabowo Subianto in Islamabad.
The meeting focused on historic ties between the two countries, shared values and the long-standing foundations laid by Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah and President Sukarno.
During the meeting, the two leaders also spoke about their commitment to promoting interfaith harmony, tolerance and inclusive development, while agreeing that these principles would guide their future cooperation.
They reviewed the state of bilateral trade and appreciated the steady rise in economic engagement.
The President highlighted the need for more balanced market access and diversification of Pakistan’s exports. Both sides welcomed the establishment of the Joint Trade Committee as a useful forum for addressing trade issues and encouraging business linkages.
The meeting discussed areas where economic cooperation could expand, including information technology, renewable energy, agriculture, halal products, tourism and infrastructure.
Both sides underlined the value of working together on climate resilience, disaster management and sustainable development, given the shared challenges facing the two countries.
The two leaders agreed to further strengthen their defence cooperation including through training and joint production.
They reaffirmed close coordination between both the countries at multilateral forums, including efforts to counter Islamophobia and support Muslim unity. Matters relating to the regional and international situation also came under discussion.
While underscoring the need for peace, security and prosperity for the region, the President briefed the visiting dignitary on the situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
President Zardari conveyed his heartfelt condolences over the tragic loss of life and the widespread devastation caused by the recent floods and landslides in Sumatra. He prayed for eternal peace for those who lost their lives and wished a swift and full recovery to all those injured in this calamity.
The extended meeting was attended by senior members of both sides.
