Tokyo, 4 July 2023 (WAI): Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari of Pakistan successfully visited Japan from July 1 – 4, 2023, following an invitation from Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi. The high-level engagement emphasized the significance of the longstanding relationship between the two nations and explored avenues for enhanced trade, investment, and cooperation in various sectors.
Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari met with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, conveying warm regards from Pakistan. The leaders desired to strengthen bilateral ties and foster collaboration across various sectors.
During the bilateral talks, Foreign Minister Zardari and Foreign Minister Hayashi discussed various issues, covering trade and investment, defense cooperation, education, science and technology, vocational training, and people-to-people exchanges. The meeting further emphasized the importance of collaboration in crucial areas such as solarization, desalination, and water purification, as well as housing and infrastructure rebuilding in flood-affected regions in Pakistan.
Both countries were committed to strengthening dialogue and fostering mutually beneficial cooperation at all levels. As part of this commitment, they agreed to work collaboratively on targeted programs to have a significant impact, especially in areas that would benefit both countries.
One key area of focus will be facilitating the movement of skilled workers from Pakistan to Japan. It was also decided to perform the Japanese language proficiency examinations in Pakistan to simplify professional labor mobility.
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During his address at the Asian Development Bank Institute (ADBI), Foreign Minister Zardari outlined Pakistan’s vision of regional connectivity and economic cooperation. Emphasizing the complementarities between Pakistan and Japan, he highlighted the potential for creating win-win outcomes and shared prosperity.
The Foreign Minister proposed collaborative efforts to develop a robust and efficient infrastructure network, thereby boosting regional connectivity and regional trade volumes.
In various meetings with executives of Japanese businesses, representatives of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), Foreign Minister Zardari showcased the vast trade and investment potential between Pakistan and Japan. He extended invitations for Japanese enterprises to invest in Pakistan, fostering stronger economic ties between the two countries.
The Foreign Minister also took the opportunity to meet with prominent members of Japanese civil society and the Pakistani community in Japan. In these interactions, he reaffirmed the Pakistani government’s dedication to supporting the Pakistani diaspora abroad, facilitating their contributions to both countries.
This significant visit is pivotal in strengthening political engagement between Pakistan and Japan. The effective meetings and dialogue will undoubtedly build mutual trust and confidence, promoting enduring cooperation between the two nations. The outcome of this visit is poised to open new avenues of economic growth and regional prosperity for both Pakistan and Japan.
