Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto met in Islamabad on Tuesday and reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors, including trade, health, agriculture, information technology, science and education. During a joint presser, PM Shehbaz highlighted that Pakistan and Indonesia currently maintain trade valued at approximately 4.5 billion dollars, with most of the volume comprising palm oil imports to Pakistan. He noted that both sides intend to create more balanced trade flows and broaden economic ties, expressing confidence that the agreed targets can be achieved through comprehensive engagement. The prime minister also acknowledged Indonesia’s position on the situation in Gaza, appreciating its diplomatic role in advocating peace during a period of heightened tension. He mentioned that violations of the ceasefire have created concern, yet acknowledged that temporary calm has been maintained.
PM Shehbaz offered support to Indonesia in strengthening its health sector by providing doctors, dentists, professors and other specialists for universities and hospitals. He said that Pakistan would extend this assistance without delay and emphasised that collaboration in health can serve as a meaningful pillar in broader bilateral relations. President Subianto thanked Pakistan for the warm reception and stated that his discussions with the prime minister resulted in productive agreements covering a wide range of fields, such as agriculture, trade, education and science and technology. He remarked that both countries share cultural and religious commonalities with a mutual preference for moderate Islamic values that promote inclusivity and tolerance. The Indonesian president also welcomed Pakistan’s willingness to share medical expertise and said he had directed his ministers to expedite steps aimed at balancing the trade relationship in practical and measurable ways.
As part of the visit, both leaders witnessed the signing of seven Memorandums of Understanding and Agreements, covering higher education, scholarship programs, business development support for small and medium enterprises, collaboration between national archives, narcotics control and cooperation in addressing illicit drug trafficking. Additional agreements covered Halal trade and certification as well as cooperation in the field of health. These MoUs were described as instruments designed to create deeper institutional ties and enhance the capacity of both countries to expand collaboration across sectors. Radio Pakistan reported that these agreements have been structured to broaden long term engagement and facilitate sustained progress in areas where both sides see strategic advantage.
President Subianto also held a separate meeting with Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. According to Inter Services Public Relations, the meeting covered regional security dynamics and future avenues for strengthening military cooperation. Both sides agreed to expand collaboration in training, capacity building and counter terrorism operations. President Subianto commended the professionalism of Pakistan’s armed forces and recognised the country’s role in fostering regional stability. Field Marshal Munir affirmed that Pakistan values its longstanding defence relationship with Indonesia and plans to build on this foundation through increased institutional coordination and deeper operational engagement.
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