Tokyo, 4 July 2023 (TDI): Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, paid a visit to Japan on July 3rd to meet with Prime Minister Kishida.
The purpose of the meeting was to discuss and unlock the true potential of the bilateral relationship between Pakistan and Japan.
Meeting Focal points
Their meeting focused on areas such as trade, labor mobility, information technology, and climate change. Both leaders expressed their commitment to enhancing collaboration for greater regional prosperity.
The day began with a meeting between Minister Bhutto and Hayashi Yoshimasa, the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan.
Minister Hayashi warmly welcomed Minister Bhutto, recognizing him as the first Pakistani foreign minister to visit Japan in four years. Minister Bhutto expressed his gratitude for Japan’s ongoing support, particularly during Pakistan’s recent massive flood disaster.
Conversation between FM Bilawal and Minister Hayashi
During the discussions, Minister Hayashi emphasized the importance of Pakistan fully realizing its economic potential by improving the business environment.
Both ministers also expressed enthusiasm for strengthening people-to-people exchanges, including the facilitation of Pakistani workers under Japan’s Specified Skilled Worker Program.
Minister Hayashi provided an overview of Japan’s “Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP)” initiative, sharing insights from the recent G7 Hiroshima Summit, which Japan presided over.
The two ministers engaged in candid discussions regarding international cooperation and regional affairs.
The meeting between Minister Bhutto and Prime Minister Kishida signifies the deep-rooted friendship between Pakistan and Japan.
The outcome of this engagement sets the stage for further collaboration and cooperation in various domains. Both sides are poised to harness the immense potential for economic growth and pave the way for cooperation in trade and commerce.
