TOKYO: Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari arrived in Tokyo on Saturday for a four-day official visit to Japan, aimed at reviving leadership-level contacts between the two countries. The visit comes in response to an invitation extended by the Japanese government, and it marks a significant step towards enhancing bilateral relations.
Upon his arrival, Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari was warmly received by Pakistan’s Ambassador to Japan, Raza Bashir Tarar, officials from the Japanese Foreign Ministry, and a large number of members from the Pakistani community residing in Japan. The Foreign Office issued an official statement confirming the reception.
The visit of the foreign minister signifies the resumption of high-level engagements between Pakistan and Japan, which had experienced a considerable hiatus in recent times. Bilateral discussions are expected to take place during the visit, including delegation-level talks between Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and his Japanese counterpart, Yoshimasa Hayashi, as announced by the spokesperson in an earlier press statement.
In addition to the talks with Hayashi, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister of Japan, Fumio Kishida, as well as hold discussions with National Security Adviser of Japan, Takeo Akiba. These meetings aim to strengthen cooperation and explore new avenues of collaboration between the two countries.
During his stay in Tokyo, the foreign minister will also deliver a talk at the Asian Development Bank Institute (ADBI), a prestigious Japanese think tank. This engagement provides an opportunity for Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari to share Pakistan’s perspective on various regional and global issues with a distinguished audience.
Longstanding Relationship Between Pakistan and Japan
The longstanding relationship between Pakistan and Japan, characterized by warmth, cordiality, and shared views on numerous issues, was reiterated in the official statement. The visit aims to further deepen the ties between the two nations and explore avenues for increased cooperation in various fields.
Apart from the official engagements, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari is expected to interact with senior officials and executives representing prominent business houses and entities involved in the import of Pakistani manpower to Japan. This interaction aims to foster stronger economic ties and explore opportunities for mutually beneficial trade relations.
It is worth mentioning that Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary, Dr. Asad Majeed Khan, had already arrived in Tokyo to participate in important meetings alongside Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, further highlighting the significance of the visit and the commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
