Japan keen to expand ties with Pakistan

Japanese Ambassador to Pakistan Kuninori Matsuda in an exclusive interview with state-run radio station said the bilateral relations between the two countries have strengthened with the passage of time. 

He said Japan will continue cooperation with Pakistan in different fields for peace, stability and development in the region. 

While mentioning 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 Islamabad can also benefit from the latest technology and expertise of Tokyo in the areas of water and sanitation, health, education and to cope with the natural disasters. 

The Ambassador said they also want to extend cooperation to Pakistan in import substitution and promotion of 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 the 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.

Referring to Pakistan's diverse landscape, he said the country has a great potential of attracting tourists not only from Japan but the entire world.

To a question, the Japanese Ambassador said Japan has been opened for jobs and training. He said given the low birth rate and aging population, there is huge shortage of skilled workforce in Japan.

He said there is great room for Pakistani human resource especially in the field of Information Technology. He said these IT experts are not required to learn the Japanese language and they can work in English language.

Answering a question, Kuninori Matsuda said Japan offers scholarships for graduate and undergraduate studies to international students as well as training for teachers of primary and secondary educational institutions and midcareer government employees. The Ambassador pledged made to enhance international scholarships for Pakistani students.