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Visit to Japan by H.E. Mr. Khurshid M. Kasuri, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
(Overview)

March 16, 2005

H.E. Mr. Khurshid M. Kasuri, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan visited Japan from February 21 to 24 at the formal invitation of Japanese Foreign Ministry. During his stay, Minister Kasuri held a Foreign Minister's Meeting with Mr. Nobutaka Machimura, Minister for Foreign Affairs. I addition, Minister Kasuri held meetings with Japanese Diet members and government officials.

1. Itinerary

February 21 (Monday)
  • Arrival in Tokyo
  • Meeting with Mr. Shoichi Nakagawa, Minister of Economy Trade and Industry
February 22 (Tuesday)
  • Meeting with Mr. Katsuya Okada, President of the Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ)
  • Luncheon with the Japan-Pakistan Parliamentary Friendship League
  • Meeting with Ms. Sadako Ogata, President of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
  • Courtesy call on Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi
  • Foreign Ministers' Meeting and working dinner with Minister Machimuta
February 23 (Wednesday)
  • Press conference
February 24 (Thursday)
  • Departure from Tokyo

2. Foreign Ministers' Meeting

In the first official meeting between the two foreign ministers, there was frank and cordial exchange of views, and the two ministers confirmed their intention to further strengthen their bilateral relations.

(1) Bilateral relations

Minister Machimura stated that Japan recognized the vital and indispensable role that Pakistan plays in the international community and highlighted following three points: (a) Pakistan's resolute position on the fight against terrorism; (b) its efforts to establish a moderate and modern Islamic state; and (c) its efforts and continuing progress to promote democracy in Pakistan. Minister Kasuri welcomed Minister Machimura's commendation, and the two ministers confirmed their intention to further strengthen their dialogue and cooperation in various areas.

(2) Economic cooperation

Minister Machimura informed Minister Kasuri that Japan was aware of the vital role which Pakistan plays in the international community and that the stable development of Pakistan is essential for the stability of the international society. Upon this basis, Minister Machimura conveyed Minister Kasuri of Japan's continued willingness to support Pakistan and also presented Minister Kasuri with a copy of the Country Assistance Program for Pakistan, which was completed at the beginning of February. In return, Minister Kasuri presented Minister Machimura with a set of postage stamps which featured pictures of Japanese ODA projects, which were issued by the Pakistani government to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Japanese ODA and which included the Kohat Tunnel.

(3) Counter-terrorism

Minister Machimura expressed his high regard for Pakistan's resolute position on counter- terrorism and confirmed Japan's continued willingness to support the efforts of Pakistan. Minister Kasuri expressed appreciation for Japan's recent assistance to Pakistan, which includes provision of fuel oil and drinking water by vessels of Japanese Maritime Self Defense Forces to Pakistani naval ships participating in the war against terrorism in the Indian Ocean (OEF-MIO).

(4) Disarmament and Non- Proliferation

Minister Machimura reiterated Japan's position on this issue to which Minister Kasuri explained the Pakistani position with reference to historical background to the issue in South Asia. Furthermore, Minister Kasuri noted that Pakistan understood the sensitivity of Japan surrounding the issue of disarmament and non- proliferation.

(5) Regional situation and global issues

(a) United Nations (UN) reform

Minister Machimura explained Japan's position on UN reform and the significance to realize reform of the Security Council. Minister Kasuri mentioned that Japan enjoyed a view of playing a responsible role in the international community through its assistance to developing countries while simultaneously stressing the importance of evolving an objective criteria and building a consensus on the issue of Security Council expansion.

(b) India- Pakistan Relations

Minister Machimura welcomed the continued dialogue between India and Pakistan, inter alia the recent achievements of the above talks such as the agreement to start bus services that will connect Muzaffarabad and Srinagar. Minister Kasuri stated that in order to resolve the Kashmir issue. It is vital to secure the involvement of the international community as well as to reflect the will of Kashmiri citizens.

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