Consul General of Indonesia Dr. June Kuncoro Hadiningrat, the Chairman & CEO of Pakistan Observer Mr. Faisal Zahid Malik discussing issues of common interest at the consulate office, Karachi.—PO photo by Nauman
Zubair Yaqoob Karachi
The Consul General of Republic of Indonesia Dr. June Kuncoro Hadiningrat has expressed strong belief towards enhanced Indonesia-Pakistan cooperation which started when Pakistan came to existence in 1947 as we, regardless of being so far away, were keen to support our brothers and sisters in Pakistan. The Chairman & CEO Pakistan Observer Mr. Faisal Zahid Malik called on the counsel general H E Dr.June Kuncoro Hadiningrat on a special invitation at the consulate office. Both the celebrities exchanged views on Israel’s brutalities in Palestine, global issues and close ties between Pakistan and Indonesia.
During the meeting Dr June Kuncoro said that Indonesian government was always keen to support businesspeople, hence, the Indonesian Consulate and its embassy in Islamabad remain extensively engaged beyond the call of duty in identifying opportunities and fully facilitating businessmen of both countries. “The Indonesian government would like to see closer cooperation between Pakistani and Indonesian research and academic institutions,” said Dr. June. He added that the Indonesia’s trade volume with Pakistan has reached USD 4.5 billion but this represents only 4.4 percent of Pakistan’s overall trade volume with partner countries.
“Thanks to all the hard work done, this year, Indonesia imported 500,000 metric tons of rice from Pakistan which was secured within a very short time,” said CG. Faisal Zahid Malik appreciated the Indonesian Consulate in Karachi for playing the role of a bridge connecting our nations and fostering a spirit of friendship that goes beyond geographical boundaries. “Indonesia and Pakistan with diverse cultures and huge population are altogether a big market with lots of opportunities.” said the chairman PO.
Faisal Malik added while underscoring the need to have cultural relations between the two countries for creation of conducive atmosphere. He was of the view that there was a huge potential for enhancing bilateral trade and investment between Pakistan and Indonesia. Both countries boast vibrant markets, skilled labor forces and good geographical locations. “Pakistan’s political and armed forces leadership assure overseas Pakistanis for the safety of their investment in Pakistan,” he said. Faisal Malik was of view to explore potential sectors for collaboration such as agriculture, textiles, tourism, and renewable energy.
Highlighted the benefits of increased bilateral trade & investment and propose the possibility of trade delegations or business forums to explore specific opportunities. During the meeting, The Chairman PO urged counsel General for tourism promotions between the two countries as we have unique cultural and historical attractions of both Pakistan and Indonesia. He further suggested the collaborative efforts to promote tourism between the two nations, such as joint marketing campaigns, travel packages, and cultural festivals were also discussed with the potential for easing visa processes to encourage people-to-people interactions. The Chairman & CEO Pakistan Observer praised Indonesia’s success as the world’s largest economy despite its large population, challenges and being a member of the G20 club. Indonesia’s global exports exceed US$120 billion, making the country the 24th largest exporter in the world.
The world and especially Pakistan should benefit from it. On diplomatic and other international forms, ways in which Pakistan and Indonesia can support each other’s interests were among the core points of the meeting. Among other issues, current situation of the Palestinian people and the responsibilities of the United Nations, especially the role of the Muslim Ummah were also discussed. Consul General H E Dr June Kuncoro Hadiningrat presented shield to Mr. Faisal Zahid Malik.
