FM Qureshi seeks increased Japanese investment in Pakistan

UNITED NATIONS: Pakistan's Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi and his Japanese counterpart Taro Kono Tuesday discussed avenues of multi-faceted cooperation between the two countries, including cooperation in political, economic, trade, investment, development and educational spheres.

The two Foreign Ministers, who met on the sidelines of the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly, expressed firm resolve to maintain the positive momentum and further increase high level interaction between the two friendly countries, according to an official statement.

They expressed their commitment to the ideals of peace, democracy, freedom and rule of law and their shared commitment to promoting peace and security in the region and the world as a whole.

They also exchanged views on the evolving peace and security environment in their respective regions and on international issues of mutual interest.

Foreign Minister Qureshi reiterated Pakistan's commitment to a peaceful, stable and secure Afghanistan and support for an Afghan-led and an Afghan-owned reconciliation process.

Foreign Minister Qureshi also briefed Kono on Pakistan's efforts to enhance regional connectivity and development including through China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

He welcomed the prospect of Japanese investment in Pakistan and also invited Japanese investors to invest in Special Economic Zones (SEZs).

Foreign Minister Qureshi briefed the Japanese Foreign Minister on Pakistan's counter terrorism efforts, manifested in Operation Radd-ul-Fasad, that is targeting all terrorists, irrespective of their origin or orientation.

He underscored Pakistan's continued commitment to fight this twin menace.

Foreign Minister Kono expressed appreciation for the enormous sacrifices made by the people of Pakistan in this regard and stressed the need for a common relentless effort in the fight against extremism and terrorism.

The Japanese side was also briefed about Indian atrocities and human rights violations in Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir; and Pakistan's credentials for membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group, the statement said.