PR. No.114/2008
Date: 03/05/2008
JAPANESE FOREIGN MINISTER CALLS ON THE FOREIGN MINISTER
Foreign Minister of Japan Mr. Masahiko Koumura who is on an official visit to Pakistan held talks with Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi today. The talks included discussions on important bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual concern.
2. The Japanese Foreign Minister congratulated the Foreign Minister on assumption of office. He acknowledged the leading role being played by Pakistan in the global war against terrorism and appreciated government's efforts. Mr.Koumura reaffirmed Japanese desire to further contribute towards the socio-economic development of Pakistan including the tribal areas. He said that Japanese government will be providing assistance worth 770 million yen for the development of education and health sectors in the tribal areas. Japan will also apprise the members of G-8 in its capacity as the chair of the G-8 Summit, to assist Pakistan 's efforts to counter terrorism and militancy and for the socio-economic development of the area.
3. Foreign Minister Koumura stated that Pakistan and Japan share similar views on global peace and stability and maintain coordination on matters relating to counter-terrorism and non-proliferation. Pakistan is participating alongwith Japan and several other countries in the Operation Enduring Freedom in the Indian Ocean as part of global counter-terrorism efforts. Both countries will strengthen this cooperation.
4. The Foreign Minister thanked his Japanese counterpart for the support extended by Japan for Pakistan 's socio-economic development. He also requested Japan to make its contribution for infrastructure development, human resource training and sustainable development in Pakistan taking advantage of liberal incentives for investment offered by the government. He appreciated Japan 's contribution in the development of health and education sectors in Pakistan . The Foreign Minister also highlighted Pakistan 's efforts to fight the menace of terrorism and thanked Japan for extending support in this regard. Both the countries also felt the need to cooperate in the areas of climate change, environment, energy and food security.
5. Later, the two Foreign Ministers signed and exchanged notes whereby Japan will provide yen 47.9 billion as Official Development Assistance to Pakistan this year for development projects in Pakistan .
Islamabad
3 May 2008
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