AAMIR SAEED

ISLAMABAD: Japan’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Taro Kono has lauded the role and sacrifices of Pakistan in the war on terror and said that his country would support Islamabad in fight against terrorism.

Kono visited Pakistan on January 3-4 and held meetings with Foreign Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif and Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa, besides paying a courtesy call on Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi.

During bilateral talks both the foreign ministers expressed satisfaction that the bilateral relations are on an upward trajectory, noting that the year 2017 marked the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Japan.

They also noted that the successful convening of a number of institutional dialogue processes covering a wide range of subjects over the last year clearly reflect the growing breadth and depth of the partnership between Japan and Pakistan particularly in the economic realm. They further agreed to maintain the momentum in high-level exchanges between the two countries.

The two sides also exchanged views with respect to evolving peace and security environment in their respective regions and international issues of mutual interest.

Asif reiterated the Pakistan’s commitment to a peaceful, stable and secure Afghanistan and support for an Afghan-led and an Afghan-owned reconciliation process. He also underscored the need for a sustained commitment from the international community during the transformation phase in Afghanistan and agreed to continue working closely in this regard.

Asif also briefed Foreign Minister Kono about Pakistan’s efforts to enhance regional connectivity and development including through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Asif briefed the Japanese Foreign Minister about the Pakistan’s counter terrorism efforts that are targeting all terrorists, irrespective of their origin or orientation. He underscored Pakistan’s continued commitment to fight this twin menace. Foreign Minister Kono expressed appreciation for enormous sacrifices made by the people of Pakistan in this regard and stressed the need for coordinated international efforts in the fight against extremism and terrorism. The Japanese side was also briefed about Indian atrocities and human rights violations in Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan’s credentials for membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group.

Talking to the media persons, Japan’s deputy secretary foreign affairs said that his country appreciates the role of Pakistan in the fight against terrorism in the region and Japan would also extend assistance to Islamabad to deal with the menace.

He said the Japanese foreign minister also talked to Asif about security of Japanese citizens living in Pakistan.