Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia After Bilateral Meeting with Prime Minister of Pakistan at St. Regis Hotel New Capital, Cairo, Egypt, December 18, 2024

Journalist

Sir, excuse me. May I ask for your thoughts on today’s agenda?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Prabowo Subianto)

This morning, I believe you followed the agenda closely. I had a state visit where I was warmly

welcomed by Egyptian President El-Sisi, followed by in-depth discussions. After that, I visited

Al-Azhar, where I met with the Grand Imam, and had the privilege of addressing nearly 2,000 of

our students there. I also just concluded a meeting with Pakistani Prime Minister, discussing

possibilities for enhancing cooperation in the economy and trade sectors. Tomorrow, we will

meet with other members of the D-8 (Developing Eight) group. I believe this is all part of our

ongoing effort to strengthen relationships and explore opportunities in these uncertain times, so

that our economies can each grow stronger.

Journalist

Sir, regarding the D-8, what will be Indonesia’s focus, considering we will be hosting the next

meeting?

President of the Republic of Indonesia (Prabowo Subianto)

The goal is to enhance cooperation among developing countries. The D-8 was established in

1997, and it happens that these are Muslim-majority countries with significant populations. So, if

we can collaborate in the economic sector, I believe it will be mutually beneficial. For example,

with Egypt, we’re discussing a Free Trade Agreement. We need phosphate from them for

fertilizers and they need our palm oil, this is cooperation. Similarly, with other countries like

India and Pakistan, we’re exploring all possibilities for cooperation. Right now, our focus is on

strengthening our respective economies, as I believe this will improve the welfare of our people.

Thank you.

 (RIF/EP)