Japanese Minister of State meets Finance Minister Ishaq Dar

Tokyo, January 14, 2015 (PPI-OT): Mr. Katsunobu Kato, Minister of State met Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar on behalf of the Japanese Prime Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office here today.

Mr. Kato welcomed the Finance Minister on behalf of the Government of Japan and extended appreciation to the efforts undertaken by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif towards the uplift of economy and improvement of security in Pakistan, stating that Prime Minister Abe’s administration will continue to work with and support Prime Minister Sharif in areas of economy, security, democracy and rule of law.

He also offered his condolences on the loss of precious life in the Peshawar terrorist attack of 16th December 2014. Mr. Kato recalled the Summit meeting between the two Prime Ministers held in New York on 26th September 26 2013 and the desire expressed by both leaders on the occasion to develop a ‘New Partnership’. Mr. Kato added that both countries may, therefore, deepen bilateral relations and cooperation at international arena.

Mr. Kato stated that Pakistan’s positive reviews in its IMF Program are encouraging for Japan to resume Yen loans. He added that Japan would continue assistance towards settlement of IDPs, eradication of Polio, floods mitigation and in the fight against terrorism.

Finance Minister conveyed greetings from the Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to Prime Minister Abe, reiterating the invitation for bilateral visit to Pakistan. He congratulated Liberal Democratic Party for its victory in the recently held general elections.

Finance Minister underlined the efforts of the Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to promote peace and friendship in the region and noted with satisfaction the existing level of trust and coordination with political and military leadership in Afghanistan.

On relations with India, the Minister regretted that Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s sincere overtures for peaceful and cooperative relations with India have not received the appropriate response. Finance Minister broached the immense human and material losses accrued to Pakistan from the ongoing war against terrorism.

Underlined the challenging circumstances, he explained the strides the government has taken towards revival of Pakistan’s economy, noting with satisfaction that the improved fiscal and financial forecasts has put the economy back on track, restored confidence of IFIs and regional financial institutions. The Finance Minister expressed the desire to further deepening bilateral political relations and trade with Japan stating that Japan has historically been a close friend.

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