Printer Friendly Version
PR. No.295/2008
Date: 27/09/2008
FOREIGN MINISTER QURESHI MEETS JAPANESE FOREIGN MINISTER
Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi met the Foreign Minister of Japan, Mr. Hir of umi Nakasone in New York on the sidelines of the 63 rd United Nations General Assembly today. Foreign Minister Qureshi congratulated Mr. Nakasone on assuming the responsibilities as Foreign Minister of Japan and assured him of Pakistan 's continued and friendly engagement.
2. Foreign Minister Qureshi, referring to Pakistan 's Vision East Asia policy, said Islamabad viewed Japan as an important economic partner and was seeking to develop bilateral economic relations to its full potential. He expressed gratitude to Japan for doubling economic assistance to Pakistan in 2007 and for participating in the newly formed group of Friends of Pakistan.
3. Foreign Minister Qureshi said Islamabad would encourage further Japanese investment in Pakistan . He said Buddhist relics in northern Pakistan could be promoted as a great attraction for Japanese tourists. Foreign Minister also invited his Japanese counterpart to visit Pakistan at mutually convenient dates.
4. Foreign Minister Qureshi also expressed the hope that Japan , as an Observer to the organization, will play a more meaningful role in the SAARC.
5. Foreign Minister Hir of umi Nakasone acknowledged the sacrifices made by Pakistan in the war against terrorism. He reiterated Japan 's commitment to continue its support to Pakistan in this war. He said Japanese ships were providing fuel and fresh water to Pakistan Navy ships in the Indian Ocean within the framework of Operation Enduring Freedom -- Maritime Interdiction Operations (OEF-MIO) .
6. Foreign Minister Hir of umi Nakasone said the Japanese decision to join the Friends of Pakistan was a manifestation of Tokyo 's desire to see a stable and prosperous Pakistan
7. The Japanese Foreign Minister thanked Foreign Minister Qureshi for the visit invitation and said he would come to Pakistan as soon as possible.
New York
27 September 2008
|