Islamabad: Ambassador Wada Mitsuhiro of Japan is set to depart Islamabad, marking the end of his three-year tenure in Pakistan. During his time, he emphasized the development of bilateral cooperation and cultural exchange between Japan and Pakistan.

According to Embassy of Japan In Pakistan, Ambassador Wada arrived in Pakistan in October 2021, amid the global COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the challenging circumstances, he noted the warm welcome he and his wife received from Pakistani officials, diplomatic peers, and the Islamabad community. Ambassador Wada had committed himself to enhancing development, business cooperation, and people-to-people exchanges between the two nations, efforts that he believes have laid a foundation for the continued strengthening of bilateral relations.

Throughout his tenure, Ambassador Wada remarked on the popularity of Japanese cultural elements, such as cars and motorbikes, in Pakistan, as well as his personal enjoyment of the country’s historical sites. He highlighted significant events during his ambassadorship, including the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2022 and Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) in 2024. Additionally, he witnessed high-level diplomatic engagements, such as a summit meeting between the two Prime Ministers in New York and a visit from Pakistan’s former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari to Japan.

Ambassador Wada acknowledged Japan’s role as the second largest donor to Pakistan, after the United States, and expressed hope that the embassy will continue its collaborative efforts with Pakistani leaders and communities. He praised Pakistan’s potential and regional importance, expressing confidence that the Japan-Pakistan relationship will continue to flourish.

In his farewell message, Ambassador Wada thanked those who supported him and urged continued cooperation with his successor, Ambassador Akamatsu Shuichi.