Pakistan, Japan Eye Deeper Trade, Investment Ties
Foreign ministers discuss trade, investment, education, health and regional developments during UNGA meeting in New York.
ISLAMABAD/NEW YORK: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar met Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi on the sidelines of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, with the two sides discussing ways to broaden bilateral economic cooperation and regional diplomatic engagement.
According to Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the talks focused particularly on expanding cooperation in trade and investment, education, health, the automobile sector and digital and information technology. The two ministers reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the momentum of bilateral engagement and exploring further cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs separately confirmed the meeting, saying it lasted approximately 30 minutes on September 21 in New York. Motegi expressed Japan’s intention to further strengthen relations with Pakistan ahead of the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 2027.
The Japanese side also highlighted Tokyo’s longstanding development cooperation with Pakistan, including in health, sanitation and education, while indicating an interest in expanding cooperation into mineral resources. Dar thanked Japan for its cooperation and expressed Pakistan’s desire to further strengthen bilateral ties.
Iran Tensions and Regional Stability Discussed
Regional developments, particularly tensions involving Iran and their wider implications, also featured prominently in the discussions. According to Japan’s official account, Motegi expressed respect for Pakistan’s mediation efforts aimed at de-escalation, while Dar stressed the importance of reconciliation between the United States and Iran and the principle of free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Both sides agreed on the importance of continued diplomatic efforts for regional stability.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office said the ministers also discussed the implications of regional instability for energy supplies, global supply chains and the world economy, while expressing hope for renewed dialogue and implementation of the Islamabad MoU. The Foreign Office has previously identified the Islamabad MoU as an agreement reached on June 17, 2026 in connection with mediation efforts in the US-Iran conflict.
Meeting Part of Dar’s UNGA Diplomatic Engagement
The meeting formed part of Dar’s extensive diplomatic programme during the UNGA High-Level Week. The Foreign Office had earlier announced that he would hold bilateral meetings with several counterparts while highlighting Pakistan’s efforts toward regional and international peace and stability.
