ISLAMABAD (Staff Reporter)
A grand ceremony was held at Aiwan-e-Sadr to confer Pakistan’s highest civilian honor, the Nishan-e-Pakistan, on President of Indonesia, Joko Widodo Subianto. The event was attended by former President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister, Chairman Senate, Speaker National Assembly, and senior military leadership.
Prior to the ceremony, President of Pakistan and President Subianto held bilateral talks, reviewing historical ties and reaffirming their commitment to shared values and long-standing goodwill. Both leaders agreed to enhance cooperation for regional peace, stability, and prosperity. President Zardari expressed deep sorrow over the recent floods and landslides in Sumatra and offered prayers for the victims and speedy recovery of the injured.
The two presidents also reaffirmed their commitment to promoting interfaith harmony and tolerance and decided to base future bilateral partnerships on inclusive development principles. Discussions highlighted satisfaction over increasing bilateral trade, the importance of trade balance and diversification, and the role of the Joint Trade Committee as an effective platform to strengthen business links.
Pakistan and Indonesia agreed to expand cooperation in information technology, agriculture, energy, and tourism, while emphasizing joint efforts to tackle climate change, disaster management, and sustainable development. Defense collaboration, including training and joint production, was also discussed. Both nations underscored their commitment to combating Islamophobia and stressed the importance of peace and development in the region.
During the talks, President Pakistan briefed President Subianto on the situation in occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Senior officials, ministers, and military leadership from both countries attended extended meetings. The visit concluded with a lavish state dinner held in honor of President Subianto at Aiwan-e-Sadr.