KARACHI: Pakistan and Indonesia on Tuesday reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral economic ties by promoting investment, trade and private-sector collaboration during the Indonesia-Pakistan Investment and Business Forum held in Karachi.
The forum, organised by Indonesia’s Embassy in Islamabad and the Consulate General in Karachi with the support of the Indonesia Investment Promotion Centre (IIPC) Abu Dhabi, brought together senior government officials, business leaders, investors, chambers of commerce and academics from both countries to explore new avenues for economic cooperation.
How Do Pakistan and Indonesia Plan to Strengthen Economic Ties?
Addressing the forum, Indonesia’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Lt Gen (retd) Chandra W. Sukotjo, called for transforming the longstanding friendship between the two countries into tangible economic outcomes through enhanced trade and investment.
He described Indonesia as a market of more than 280 million people, a manufacturing hub and a gateway to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), stressing that a future Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) should encompass trade, investment, services, customs procedures, standards and supply-chain connectivity.
Consul General Mudzakir highlighted Karachi’s strategic importance as Pakistan’s commercial and maritime hub and reaffirmed the Indonesian Consulate’s commitment to facilitating business partnerships, market access and investment opportunities.
Acting President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Saquib Fayyaz Magoon, underscored the complementary strengths of both economies and called for diversified trade, stronger business-to-business engagement, improved logistics and progress towards concluding the CEPA.
What Investment Opportunities Did Sindh Offer to Indonesian Businesses?
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment and attracting foreign investment across key sectors.
He highlighted investment opportunities in manufacturing, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, healthcare, infrastructure, logistics, digital technology and data centres, while encouraging Indonesian companies to establish partnerships with businesses in Sindh.
The event also featured the “Resonance of Partnership” gong ceremony, symbolising the shared commitment of Pakistan and Indonesia to deepen economic cooperation.
Business dialogues and networking sessions concluded the forum, with participants exploring practical collaborations aimed at expanding bilateral investment, value-added trade and sustainable economic growth.