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

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

“Pakistan and Japan enjoy a relationship rooted in decades of trust, mutual respect and consistent cooperation,” President Zardari said while speaking 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 journey.

At the beginning of the event, President Zardari asked participants to observe a minute of silence in memory of the martyrs of the recent blast in Tarlai, 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 attach great importance to 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 highlighted that Pakistan attached great importance to its relationship with Japan, describing it as a partnership that had grown steadily over many decades of diplomatic relations.

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

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

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

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

Referring to Pakistan’s strategic geographical location at the crossroads of Asia, the President said the country connects trade routes, energy corridors and regional markets, offering significant opportunities along with shared responsibilities.

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

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

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

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