Japanese envoy thanks PM for evacuation efforts

Imran reaffirms Pakistan’s desire to boost bilateral ties

ISLAMABAD:

Japanese Ambassador Kuninori Matsuda on Monday thanked Prime Minister Imran Khan for his leadership in further solidifying bilateral relations and in support of peace in the region and beyond.

The appreciation came during a meeting with PM Imran in the federal capital, according to a statement.

The premier congratulated the ambassador on the successful completion of his tenure in Pakistan and conveyed best wishes for future assignments.

Ambassador Matsuda thanked the PM for addressing a letter to the latter’s new Japanese counterpart Fumio Kishida and recalled the premier’s engagement with the Japanese dignitaries on various issues.

“PM Imran underscored the high importance Pakistan attached to its relationship with Japan, which was embedded in mutual trust and understanding. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong desire to further deepen and broaden bilateral cooperation in the economic, trade, development, and investment sectors,” it read.

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In the regional context, PM Imran highlighted Pakistan’s interest in a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. He stressed that the international community must remain positively engaged with the new Afghan administration, provide urgently needed humanitarian assistance, and take steps to prevent economic collapse including through the release of Afghanistan’s frozen assets. He also underlined the importance of national reconciliation and an inclusive political structure.

“The Japanese ambassador thanked the Prime Minister for his strong leadership in further solidifying Pakistan’s relations with Japan and in support of peace and stability in the region and beyond,” read the statement.

Matsuda also conveyed “profound thanks” to the Pakistani government for facilitating the evacuation of Japanese nationals and others from Afghanistan. The envoy also highlighted the MoU signed between the two sides on the export of manpower from Pakistan to Japan under the Technical Intern Training Programme and Specified Skilled Workers Programme. It was emphasised to re-double efforts to realise the benefits of the MoU.

“The year 2022 will mark the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Pakistan and Japan. The two sides envisage celebration of this milestone in a befitting manner,” it read.