The minister made these remarks during the celebration of the 85th National Day of Pakistan and the 75th Anniversary of Indonesia-Pakistan Diplomatic Relations in Jakarta on Monday evening.
He emphasized that 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Pakistan, a partnership built on mutual respect and continuously strengthened through constructive partnerships at both regional and global levels.
In his address, he also highlighted the importance of Asta Cita, Indonesia's national development framework as envisioned by President Prabowo Subianto.
The Asta Cita missions highlight important aspects in building national resilience, enhancing global competitiveness, and encouraging stronger international collaboration.
"These aspects are very much aligned with the spirit of Indonesia's partnership with Pakistan," he affirmed.
Furthermore, he noted with pleasure that Pakistan now ranks among Indonesia's principal trading partners in South Asia.
He noted that bilateral trade between Indonesia and Pakistan has grown by 7.92 percent over the past five years, encompassing palm oil products, textiles, machinery, pharmaceuticals, and halal food products.
The two countries' trade partnership was further solidified by signing the Preferential Trade Agreement in 2012, which helped increase trade value from US$1.6 billion in 2012 to US$4 billion in 2024.
"Both countries have agreed to expand the scope of partnership by upgrading the PTA to a Trade in Goods Agreement, which is currently under negotiation," he affirmed.
Santoso also noted that beyond bilateral collaboration, Pakistan and Indonesia stand as brothers in advancing prosperity across the Muslim world, as the two countries have actively participated in Islamic cooperation to tackle global challenges.
He expressed optimism that with mutual respect and collaboration, Indonesia and Pakistan would continue to make meaningful contributions to regional and global stability and prosperity.
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Translator: Asri Mayang, Raka Adji
Editor: Primayanti
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