Staff Reporter
Islamabad : A four-member delegation from the National Federation of Journalists (NFJ) visited the Embassy of Indonesia in Islamabad to meet with His Excellency Rahmat Hindiarta, Chargé d’Affaires, to explore opportunities for international collaboration between Pakistan’s Journalist Federation & Union and the Journalist Association of Indonesia.The NFJ delegation included Aamir Rafiq Butt – Senior Vice President, Abid Siddique Chaudhry – Secretary General, Adnan Hameed – Joint Secretary, and Muhammad Nadeem Chaudhary – Senior Executive Member. During the meeting, Aamir Butt provided an overview of NFJ’s functions and introduced each member of the delegation to the Chargé d’Affaires. The discussion focused on building strong connections between the media associations of both countries to enhance journalistic collaboration on a global scale.The visit also aims to further strengthen the cultural, bilateral, and diplomatic ties between the two nations, with a focus on enhancing people-to-people connections through collaboration between two prominent media platforms. By fostering mutual understanding and shared interests, this initiative will contribute to deepening the relationship and promoting a more dynamic exchange of ideas and cultural values.
During the discussions, Abid Chaudhry inquired about the annual number of Pakistani visitors to Indonesia. In response, the Chargé d’Affaires informed that approximately 1,4000 Pakistanis visit Indonesia each year, reflecting the growing interest in travel and cultural exchange between the two nations.The Chargé d’Affaires expressed his enthusiasm for future collaborations and encouraged the NFJ members to pursue the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) between the media associations of Pakistan and Indonesia. He emphasized that such agreements would be instrumental in fostering a robust partnership in the media sector.
Furthermore, the Chargé d’Affaires pointed out that the current MOU between Indonesia’s government news agency and Pakistan’s Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) has expired and is in need of renewal. He stressed the importance of renewing this agreement to ensure the continued exchange of news and information between the two countries.Chargé d’Affaires, Rahmat Hindiarta also highlighted that the bilateral trade volume between Indonesia and Pakistan constitutes only 0.6 percent of Indonesia’s total global trade. He emphasized the need to strengthen economic ties alongside media collaboration, underscoring the potential for significant growth in trade relations between the two countries.The Chargé d’Affaires also shared his personal experiences in Pakistan, noting that he and his family have been enjoying their time in the country. They have traveled to various cities, including Quetta, Peshawar, Lahore, and Gujranwala, and have been warmly welcomed at each destination. Aamir Rafiq and Abid Chaudhry highlighted the region’s best export quality Basmati rice, as well as the Sonex and Super Asia industries.Additionally, he informed the NFJ delegation about his visits to various chambers of commerce across Pakistan, aimed at promoting business and trade relations between the two countries. He emphasized the need to strengthen economic ties alongside media collaboration.
Hindiarta appreciated Adnan Hameed’s active participation and acknowledged his efforts in promoting the embassy’s news on short notice, praising his dedication to strengthening communication with the embassy.
Looking ahead, the Chargé d’Affaires announced that Indonesia is set to host a Business Forum in Jakarta on 7th October 2024 and 39th Trade Expo (Build Stong Connection with the Best of Indonesia) in Indonesia from October 9 to 12, 2024. A significant number of Pakistani businessmen are expected to participate in this event, which aims to boost trade and economic cooperation between Pakistan and Indonesia.
The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to advancing media collaboration and enhancing the overall relationship between the two democratic nations through continued dialogue and cooperation. At the conclusion of the meeting, Secretary General Abid Siddique Chaudhry, accompanied by NFJ members, had the honor of presenting a commemorative shield on behalf of CNN Urdu and The World Ambassador to His Excellency Rahmat K. Hindiarta, Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia. The gesture was followed by the capturing of a group photograph to mark the occasion.
