ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Japan have agreed to further deepen their mutually beneficial bilateral cooperation in various areas, including trade, investment, human resource development and exchange, IT, tourism, and agriculture sectors.
Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari made this announcement during a joint press statement with his Japanese counterpart, Yoshimasa Hayashi, in Tokyo.
The two ministers held a productive meeting in a cordial environment, expressing their appreciation for the strong bilateral relations and their readiness to engage further.
They also agreed to explore the possibility of collaboration in targeted programs with higher impact, focusing on solarization, desalination, water purification, and housing and infrastructure rebuilding in flood-affected areas of Pakistan.
Additionally, both sides have decided to conduct language skill assessment tests for the Japanese language in Pakistan to facilitate the movement of the skilled workforce. Bilawal highlighted the importance of language training for young Pakistani skilled human resources to enhance cooperation with Japan.
They also discussed investment opportunities and potential joint ventures by Japanese enterprises in Pakistan.
Bilawal expressed his intention to interact with the private sector, local media, and think tanks during his visit to Japan to further broaden engagement. He extended an invitation to his Japanese counterpart to visit Pakistan at his convenience to further the discussions and strengthen the bilateral ties.
Highlighting the longstanding friendship and special bond between Pakistan and Japan, Bilawal emphasized the deep-rooted linkages that have stood the test of time.
He acknowledged the warmth and affection of the people of Pakistan towards Japan and the Japanese people, noting their history of standing together in times of need.
Bilawal also recalled his previous meeting with Minister Hayashi in Cambodia last year during the 29th Ministerial Meeting of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF).
He expressed satisfaction with the progress made since then and emphasized the importance of continuing positive dialogue and exploring further avenues of cooperation.
