ISLAMABAD:Ambassador of Japan Wada Mitsuhiro called on Minister of Defence Lt Gen (retd) Anwar Ali Hyder here on Wednesday.

The Minister highlighted the historical close ties between Pakistan and Japan. He appreciated Japanese support for prosperity and development in Pakistan over the years through JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency).

He expressed hope that Japan would help create economic activities in Pakistan through mutually beneficial participation in China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as well as considering investment in maritime and industrial manufacturing sectors especially like Gawadar Shipyard.

The Defence Minister emphasized on continuation of training and collaboration between the two Navies and reiterated Pakistan’s continued commitment to UN Peacekeeping Operations.

He also commended the efforts of Japanese Government for regular holding of Pakistan-Japan Politico-Military and Military to Military Dialogues, adding that such interactions are a concrete expression of the desire of both the countries to enhance mutual defence collaboration.

He mentioned the potential to cooperate in the defence field and need to strengthen the existing level of defence collaboration.

The Japanese Ambassador assured of his Government’s continued support to Pakistan and exploring new avenues of mutual collaboration.