Islamabad, Mar 4, 2025: The recent meeting of the Pak-Japan Parliamentary Group focused on enhancing diplomatic ties and expanding avenues for economic and developmental cooperation between Pakistan and Japan.
Presided over by Senator Nadeem Ahmed Bhutto, the session underscored the mutual benefits of fostering stronger bilateral relations. Senator Bhutto, accompanied by senior representatives from the Senate Secretariat, extended a warm welcome to Japan’s Ambassador, Akamatsu Shuichi, as discussions centered on strengthening economic collaboration.
During the conversation, Senator Bhutto highlighted Pakistan’s diverse and breathtaking natural landscapes, particularly in the northern territories, emphasizing the country’s potential to develop its tourism sector.
He also acknowledged Japan’s well-established affiliations with global financial institutions, such as the World Bank, which have played a key role in supporting Pakistan’s economic progress.
Pointing to the current trade volume of $1.72 billion between the two nations, the senator stressed the importance of scaling up commercial cooperation. He suggested that organizations like the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The Foreign Investment Support Center (FISC) could serve as effective channels to attract increased Japanese investment into Pakistan’s market. He reiterated Pakistan’s credibility as a reliable economically and urged Japanese businesses to capitalize on the country’s investment potential.
Referring to the 2023 Tokyo Investment Board meeting, where over 127 major investment firms participated, he expressed optimism about further strengthening business ties. Regarding workforce development, he highlighted existing agreements on technical internships and specialized skill programs.
Acknowledging the valuable contributions of the Pakistani diaspora in Japan, which currently exceeds 25,000 individuals. Their presence, he noted, plays a vital role in fostering positive relations between the two countries.
Ambassador Akamatsu Shuichi expressed appreciation for the warm hospitality and recalled his recent meeting with the Chairman of the Senate, calling it an honor. He reaffirmed Japan’s dedication to deepening bilateral engagement, emphasizing that diplomatic ties between the two nations have spanned over seven decades. He noted that Japan has been a steadfast development partner of Pakistan for more than 70 years.
The ambassador highlighted that over 80 Japanese enterprises are actively operating in Pakistan, making significant contributions to the country’s economic and social progress. He also pointed out that approximately 1,000 Japanese tourists visit Pakistan each year.
A number expected to rise as security conditions improve. Looking ahead, he cited the 2025 Osaka Conference as an excellent opportunity for Pakistan to showcase its economic potential and attract global investors.
He further lauded the ongoing parliamentary exchanges between the two nations and expressed optimism for continued collaboration following Japan’s upcoming elections.
