TOKYO: Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has said that Pakistan and Japan should join hands to build a robust and efficient infrastructure network to boost regional connectivity and enhance trade volumes across the region.
Addressing an event at the Asian Development Bank Institute, he said that by leveraging their respective strengths and collaborating on regional initiatives, Pakistan and Japan can also catalyze the growth and development of SAARC, according to state media.
He said that joint efforts between the two countries could help foster closer cooperation, enhance regional stability, and unlock the untapped potential of the SAARC member countries, leading to shared progress and prosperity for the entire region.
Bilawal Bhutto highlights Kashmir issue
Bilawal Bhutto reiterated that there could be no peace in South Asia until the region’s core dispute of Jammu and Kashmir is resolved through negotiations following the United Nations Security Council Resolutions. Pakistan has always been prepared to work towards such a resolution.
Tragically, Pakistan doesn’t have a partner for peace in South Asia, he said, adding that India is in the grip of a form of religious hysteria that has closed out any space for negotiations and diplomacy.
Regarding Afghanistan, the Foreign Minister said that Japan and Pakistan can contribute to a stable, secure, and prosperous Afghanistan.
He said Japan’s expertise in development assistance and Pakistan’s geographical proximity to Afghanistan could build opportunities for joint efforts to promote sustainable development and provide humanitarian aid.
