Japan backs stronger, deeper Pakistan partnership

Japanese Ambassador to Pakistan Akamatsu Shuichi has reaffirmed Tokyo’s commitment to further strengthening its longstanding relationship with Pakistan.

In a message ahead of Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day, the Japanese envoy conveyed greetings to the Pakistani government and people on behalf of Japan.

Speaking in Urdu in a video message, Ambassador Shuichi highlighted the longstanding friendship between the two countries and expressed hope for deeper cooperation in the coming years.

He noted that Pakistan and Japan will mark the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2027.

The ambassador said both countries would continue working as trusted partners to promote peace, development and stability. He also pledged to further strengthen friendly relations between Tokyo and Islamabad.

Shuichi concluded his message by expressing confidence in the continued bond between the two nations and saying, “Japan-Pakistan Dosti Zindabad.”

The ambassador’s message comes shortly after Pakistan and Japan signed a grant agreement worth 350 million Japanese yen, equivalent to around $2.2 million, to strengthen the Human Resources Development Scholarship Programme.

The initiative, known as the JDS programme, will expand opportunities for Pakistani civil servants to receive postgraduate education and professional training in Japan.

Under the agreement, 17 federal government officials will receive scholarships. Sixteen will pursue master’s degrees, while one official will undertake a PhD programme.

Economic Affairs Secretary Muhammad Hameer Karim and Ambassador Akamatsu Shuichi signed the Record of Discussions for the programme.

Senior Joint Secretary Miran Mohiuddin Soomro and JICA Chief Representative Yusuke Shinazaki signed the grant agreement.

The scholarship programme is expected to contribute to human resource development and strengthen institutional links between Pakistan and Japan.