Islamabad, President Asif Ali Zardari has emphasized the need for broadening the bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Japan, particularly in trade, investment, economy, culture, and people-to-people contacts. He highlighted the potential economic opportunities available in Pakistan for Japanese businesses during discussions with Mr. Mitsuhiro Wada, the Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, at Aiwan-e-Sadr.

According to Pakistan Peoples Party, President Zardari underscored the long-standing relations between Pakistan and Japan, advocating for further strengthening ties for mutual benefit. He pointed out Japan’s significant role as a development partner through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), supporting Pakistan’s socio-economic development in various sectors. The President suggested that Pakistan, with its large population, could provide trained workforce and professionals to meet Japan’s human resource requirements.

Furthermore, President Zardari encouraged Japanese automobile companies in Pakistan to increase production for export and urged Japanese banks to resume operations in Pakistan, reflecting the country’s determination to surmount its socio-economic challenges.

Ambassador Wada acknowledged Pakistan’s strategic position and demographic advantages as potential areas of interest for Japanese companies. He highlighted the growing export of Pakistani mangoes to Japan and commended the recent visit of former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari to Japan, noting the significant role the young generation of Pakistan could play in the country’s prosperity. Wada also conveyed the regards of Japanese Emperor His Majesty Naruhito to President Zardari, who reciprocated with warm regards and reflected positively on his visit to Japan and the support received from the Japanese government, especially in the aftermath of the 2022 floods.

Additionally, President Zardari met with the Ambassador of Yemen to Pakistan, Mr. Mohammad Motahar Alashabi, who congratulated him on his office assumption. The meeting underscored the excellent bilateral relations between Pakistan and Yemen, founded on shared religious, cultural values, and the mutual interest in enhancing cooperation.