Karachi: In a meeting held at the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation’s head office on Friday morning, Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab and the Consul General of Japan, Hattori Masaru, discussed ongoing cooperation and future engagements between Karachi and Japan. The Consul General extended an invitation to Mayor Wahab to attend the upcoming Japan Festival in November 2024 as the chief guest.
According to Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, Mayor Wahab highlighted the strong, longstanding relationship between Pakistan and Japan, citing various developmental projects facilitated by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) that have significantly improved Karachi’s infrastructure. He expressed appreciation for Japan’s sustained interest and contributions to Pakistan’s development.
During the discussions, Mayor Wahab emphasized Karachi’s commitment to promoting international cultural and educational activities, offering full support for the organization of a cultural program for Japan at the Frere Hall. He mentioned the recent constitutional advancements with the 26th Amendment, which aims to create a balance within national institutions, suggesting this could lead to further positive developments in the city’s governance and international collaborations.
Mayor Wahab also expressed a keen interest in adopting more Japanese technology in Pakistan’s industrial sector, acknowledging the significant benefits already realized from previous collaborations in urban infrastructure development. He assured the Consul General of full cooperation for Japanese companies looking to invest in Karachi, noting the city’s attractive investment opportunities.
Consul General Hattori Masaru recognized Karachi’s vital role as Pakistan’s economic hub and lauded the ongoing developmental initiatives in the city. He conveyed optimism about expanding cooperation, particularly in the realms of urban development, and underscored the potential for future projects that could allow Japanese government and institutions to play a more significant role in Karachi.
The meeting underscored the mutual commitment to strengthening ties between Karachi and Japan, focusing on cultural exchanges, technological cooperation, and enhancing infrastructural development.