I am delighted to be in Karachi and to deliver the keynote address at the 8th Pakistan Edible Oil Conference (PEOC) on 10 January 2026.

Pakistan is a highly important trade partner for Indonesia, particularly in the edible oil sector, and this visit reflects Indonesia’s strong commitment to further strengthening trade and economic cooperation between our two countries. This commitment has recently been reinforced at the highest political level through constructive engagements between President PrabowoSubianto and the leadership of Pakistan, including discussions with the Prime Minister and the President. These exchanges reaffirmed the shared strategic outlook of both countries to elevate bilateral relations, with economic cooperation as key pillars of the partnership.

The PEOC has consistently served as a valuable platform that brings together Pakistan’s domestic industry and leading global edible-oil producers, fostering dialogue, partnership, and innovation across the value chain. Such platforms play an important role in translating high-level political understanding into concrete business collaboration and mutually beneficial outcomes.

Indonesia is proud of its longstanding brotherly relationship with Pakistan. At this juncture, we are witnessing a favourable political momentum that provides a foundation to advance bilateral economic relations to a higher level. This momentum is expected to further encourage trade flows and investment cooperation, including through discussions toward a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Indonesia views CEPA as a strategic instrument to unlock greater market access, enhance trade facilitation, and create a more predictable and enabling environment for businesses in both nations, including in the edible oil sector.

Looking ahead, Indonesia remains optimistic that bilateral trade will continue to grow in a more balanced and sustainable manner-not only through traditional import-export activities, but also through investment, joint-venture projects, downstream industries, and knowledge sharing that generate long-term value for both economies.

I commend the organizers for their continued efforts in bringing key stakeholders under one roof and wish the 8th PEOC every success in advancing the development and resilience of Pakistan’s edible-oil industry.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026