ISLAMABAD: A meeting between the Pakistan-Japan Parliamentary Friendship Group and a Japanese business delegation took place at the Parliament House in Islamabad, focusing on enhancing strategic collaboration between the two nations. Senator Nadeem Ahmed Bhutto, the convener of the group, welcomed Members of the Japanese Parliament and business leaders, highlighting the potential for a strategic partnership to address Japan’s labor shortage and strengthen bilateral cooperation.

Senator Bhutto emphasized the role that Pakistan’s youth could play in filling Japan’s estimated 3.4 million labor gap in 2023. He noted the potential contributions of skilled Pakistani youth in fields such as artificial intelligence and other emerging sectors crucial to the global economy.

The senator expressed gratitude for Japan’s humanitarian assistance during the 2022 floods in Pakistan and acknowledged the Japan International Cooperation Agency’s (JICA) significant support in Pakistan’s development, especially in the areas of polio eradication and education.

Recalling the historical roots of Pakistan-Japan relations dating back to the San Francisco Peace Conference in 1951, Senator Bhutto underscored the importance of the friendship group in fostering trust and collaboration. He noted the potential benefits of Japan’s expertise in disaster management, climate change, and digital transformation for Pakistan.

Highlighting shared commitments to peace and stability, Senator Bhutto mentioned a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding aimed at enhancing bilateral dialogue, defense cooperation, and the exchange of skilled workers. He also praised Japan’s role in establishing weather forecasting centers in Pakistan and acknowledged the efforts of the Pakistan-Japan Cultural Association in strengthening cultural ties.

The Japanese delegation expressed appreciation for the warm reception and shared their interest in expanding trade and human resource cooperation with Pakistan. They acknowledged the challenge posed by the language barrier but outlined initiatives to engage Japanese language instructors to bridge this gap.

Senator Bhutto concluded by reiterating the importance of the Pakistan-Japan Parliamentary Friendship Group as a platform for strengthening bilateral ties. The delegation was also given a tour of the Senate Museum, Senate Hall, and National Assembly Hall.