Staff Reporter Islamabad
Japan has expressed strong desire to expand relations with Pakistan in different fields including trade, economy, investment, military and sports besides enhancing political and cultural exchanges.
The views were expressed by Japanese Ambassador to Pakistan Kuninori Matsuda in an exclusive interview with this scribe on Thursday.
Giving a complete background of historic relations between Pakistan and Japan, the Japanese Ambassador said the bilateral relations between the two countries have strengthened with the passage of time.
He said both the countries will celebrate next year the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.
He said they will continue cooperation with Pakistani partners in different fields for peace, stability and development in the region.
Alluding to the Japanese cooperation to Pakistan in the areas of road infrastructure, power generation and polio eradication, the Japanese envoy said his country will prioritize development of those areas which is the requirement of Pakistan.
He said Pakistan can also benefit from the latest technology and expertise of Japan in the areas of water and sanitation, health, education and to cope with the natural disasters.
Kuninori Matsuda said we also want to extend cooperation to Pakistan in import substitution and promotion of its exports.
He pointed out that there is great demand for agricultural products in Japan including that of Basmati rice, Mango, sesame, dates, salt and textiles.
Referring to Pakistan’s fisheries potential, he said his country will support the country to strengthen this sector to enhance its exports to Japan and other countries.
The Japanese Ambassador said Japan has offered services to Pakistan for the development of a weather surveillance network to deal with the floods triggered by monsoon rains.
