President Zardari reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to deepening its long-standing partnership with Japan

President Asif Ali Zardari on Tuesday reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthen bilateral relations with Japan in the areas of development, technology and people-to-people exchanges.

“Pakistan and Japan enjoy relations rooted in decades of trust, mutual respect and consistent cooperation,” President Zardari said at a reception marking the 66th birthday of Emperor Naruhito of Japan.

He highlighted Japan’s enduring support for Pakistan and its vital role in the country’s development.

At the start of the event, President Zardari asked the participants to observe a minute’s silence in memory of the martyrs of the recent Tarlai blast in Islamabad and expressed solidarity with the bereaved families.

“Japan is widely admired around the world for its technological achievements and rich cultural heritage,” President Zardari said, adding, “The Japanese people place great importance on discipline and dignity. They value family and community, and honor tradition while constantly embracing progress and innovation. These qualities are well understood and appreciated in Pakistan.”

He stressed that Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with Japan, describing it as a partnership that has grown steadily over several decades of diplomatic ties.

“Japan has stood by Pakistan in difficult times,” he said, recalling Japan’s compassionate and practical support during climate-related disasters.

He said that beyond the immediate assistance, Japan’s continued commitment to development cooperation and disaster risk preparedness had been deeply appreciated and widely felt. “For this, we are sincerely grateful,” he added.

President Zardari said Pakistan views Japan as a model of technological excellence and innovation and seeks to learn from its experience to develop skills, strengthen institutions and prepare its youth for the future.

Regarding economic cooperation, he noted that more than 80 Japanese companies are currently operating in Pakistan, contributing to economic growth, creating jobs and sharing valuable expertise, reflecting Japan’s confidence in Pakistan’s potential.

Referring to Pakistan’s strategic geographic location at the crossroads of Asia, the President said the country connects trade routes, energy corridors and regional markets, providing significant opportunities as well as shared responsibilities.

In this context, he appreciated Japan’s long-standing contribution to Pakistan’s development, particularly through the Japan International Cooperation Agency, which he described as a respected symbol of sustainable and people-centered progress.

“Pakistan and Japan share a belief in strong families, social harmony and respect for human dignity. These common principles give our partnership depth and resilience,” the President said, adding that he was confident that bilateral relations would continue to strengthen with common purpose, clarity and ambition.

The president congratulated Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on his landslide election victory.

Senator Saleem Mandviwalla also presented a letter from the President conveying best wishes to the Japanese Ambassador on the occasion of the Emperor’s 66th birthday.