Japan-Pakistan Relations
Japan-Pakistan Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
September 21, 2026
On September 21, commencing at 3:05 p.m. local time (September 22, 4:05 a.m. Japan time) for approximately 30 minutes, Mr. MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, who is visiting the United States to attend the United Nation General Assembly, held a Foreign Ministers’ meeting with H.E. Mr. Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
- At the outset, Minister MOTEGI stated his intention to further strengthen bilateral relations toward the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Pakistan next year. He also reiterated his respect for the mediation efforts taken by Deputy Prime Minister Dar and the Government of Pakistan with aiming at de-escalating the situation in Iran, and expressed his desire to work closely with Deputy Prime Minister Dar in a profoundly challenging and increasingly severe international situations.
- In response, Deputy Prime Minister Dar stated that the reconciliation between the United States and Iran is essential and Pakisntan has not given up the hope for it. He also mentioned that Pakistan has been clear on the principle that the free navigation in Strait of Hormuz is necessary.
- Minister MOTEGI expressed his serious concern over the continued military tensions regarding the situations in Iran and reiterated the importantance of de-escalating the situation as soon as possible and resumption of talks between the United States and Iran. He also emphasized that it is of the utmost importance to ensure free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz without any additional costs as it has been. Both sides confirmed that they maintain close coordination toward the stability throughout the region by making every possible diplomatic effort.
- Furthermore, Minister MOTEGI, recalling the geopolitically important position that Pakistan holds as a gateway to the Middle East and Central Asia, stated that Pakistan’s stability and prosperity are also crucial for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, and from that perspective, Japan supports Pakistan’s fight against terrorism.
- In addition, Minister MOTEGI, referring to the Japan’s initiative in promoting the Pakistan’s development in a wide range of areas since its independence including health and sanitation as well as education, stated Japan’s intention to expand cooperation in the field of mineral resources.
- In response, Deputy Prime Minister Dar expressed his gratitude for the cooperation provided by the Government and people of Japan and stated his desire to further strengthen the cooperative relations between Japan and Pakistan.