Islamabad:Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a meeting with Indonesian President Joko Widodo in Cairo, where both leaders discussed matters of mutual interest.
During the meeting at the D-8 Summit, Prime Minister Sharif congratulated President Widodo on assuming office. The two leaders exchanged views on bilateral relations, including political, trade, and economic issues, as well as cooperation on multilateral forums. They emphasized the need to further strengthen economic and trade ties and agreed to maintain close communication to sustain their bilateral relationship.
Prime Minister Sharif praised Indonesia as a reliable trading partner for Pakistan, particularly highlighting Indonesia’s role as a major supplier of palm oil. Pakistan imports a significant portion of its edible oil needs from Indonesia.
Expressing Pakistan’s keen interest in enhancing ties with ASEAN and its member states, the Prime Minister appreciated Indonesia’s support for Pakistan’s bid to obtain sectoral partner status with ASEAN and membership in the ASEAN Regional Forum. He expressed hope that with Indonesia’s cooperation, Pakistan would eventually achieve full dialogue partner status with ASEAN.
The Prime Minister also extended an invitation to President Widodo to visit Pakistan, which was accepted.
Both leaders reaffirmed their unwavering support for Palestine, called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and stressed the need for a comprehensive approach to resolve the Palestinian issue. They reiterated their commitment to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state, with borders based on pre-1967 lines and Jerusalem as its capital.
