The Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, Mr. Taro Kono, who is
on a visit to Pakistan, called on Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi at the
Prime Minister’s Office today.
?Welcoming the
Japanese Foreign Minister and his delegation to Pakistan, the Prime Minister
stated that the Government and people of Pakistan have deep warmth and
affection for the people of Japan. Pakistan, therefore, attaches great
importance to its relations with Japan and is keen to enhance cooperation in
all areas. Appreciating Japan’s role in the socio-economic development of
Pakistan, the Prime Minister stressed on further strengthening cooperation in
the areas of trade, investment, infrastructure development and human resources
development. He expressed satisfaction over the renewed Japanese investors’
interest in Pakistan, and noted that there were enormous opportunities
available in Pakistan in the wake of sustained economic turn around and
improved security environment.
?Prime Minister
also recalled the latest JETRO survey on ‘Japanese Business in Asia’ that has
declared Pakistan as the leading country in regard to positive sale profits and
future business expansion. The Prime Minister noted that this is a good
indicator of how the two countries could mutually benefit through expanded
business cooperation. He also welcomed Prime Minister Abe’s statement on
Japan’s readiness to work with other countries in developing infrastructure
projects and in availing business opportunities across Asia.
?Foreign Minister
Kono thanked the Prime Minister for the warm welcome. He also conveyed the good
wishes of Prime Minister Abe to the Prime Minister. The Foreign Minister
further stated that Japan, as a friend, would continue to work with Pakistan
for further strengthening bilateral relations.
?Appreciating the
role being played by Pakistan in fighting terrorism and extremism, Foreign
Minister Kono stated that Japan acknowledges the immense sacrifices made by
Pakistan to root out terrorism and extremism from the region. Prime Minister
Abbasi underscored Pakistan’s continued commitment to fight this twin menace.
?Prime Minister
also reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to the promotion of peace and stability
in the region and shared with Foreign Minister Kono various initiatives taken
by Pakistan to reach out to its neighbours. The Prime Minister stressed that
aggressive escalatory tactics being used by India in shunning dialogue and
engagements with Pakistan and blatant human rights violations against the
innocent Kashmiri civilians in the Indian Occupied Kashmir would not help the
prospects of peace and stability in South Asia.
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