Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan Taro Kono who is on a visit to Pakistan, called on Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi at the Prime Minister's Office here on Thursday. 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, said a press release.
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.-PR