Message from Ambassador of Pakistan to Japan

I am delighted to learn that Pakistan-Japan Business Forum (PJBF) is arranging special supplements in the leading dailies of Pakistan to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Japan. I felicitate the Chairman, the Board of Directors and the members of the PJBF for this effort.
On this joyous commemoration, a number of events have been organised both in Pakistan and Japan. We had very recently organised Pakistan Bazaar at the famous Yoyogi Park which went as a big success and presented beautiful image of the unseen Pakistan.
The beautiful archipelago of the land of rising sun, Japan, is fascinating, be it the culture of humility, the budhist temple gardens, the technological advancements, sumo wrestling, the tsukiji fish market and ninjas and so on. Japan is also a world leader in endeavour, innovation and accomplishment. An economy, no less than a miracle of human enterprise. A perfect societal blend of tradition and modernity. Since last year Japan has gone through a very difficult phase as a consequence of triple tragedy of the massive earthquake devastating tsunami and the nuclear accident. I reiterate our sympathies with Japanese friends. We also commend the resilience of our Japanese friends that has enabled them to demonstrate strength to cope with the hardships.
The relations between Pakistan and Japan over the last six decades have developed into a strong and dependable partnership. Our two countries share a centuries old common heritage which invariably links our two countries in a strong historical bond of cultural co-operation. Pakistan is proud to be the home of rich heritage of Buddhist and Gandhara civilisation. Our two countries enjoy very cordial ties marked by trust and respect for each other. President Mr Asif Ali Zardari's visit to Japan in February last year provided further impetus to these bilateral ties. The Joint Statement on Comprehensive Partnership for Peace and Security was signed. The concept of this partnership has raised the level of relationship which manifests itself in a broad range of subjects for co-operation.
Pakistan-Japan Business Forum (PJBF) has played a vital role in respect of trade and investment between Pakistan and Japan. A delegation comprising 30 prominent businessmen and representing varied interests recently visited Tokyo for a Joint Dialogue to impress upon the need to enhance trade which currently stands heavily in favour of Japan. I am confident that under the dynamic leadership of Mr Abdul Kader Jaffer as its Chairman, the forum will succeed in meeting its aims and objectives. On this auspicious occasion, I convey my best wishes for the continued prosperity and well-being of the friendly people of Pakistan and Japan.