Pakistan, Japan discuss coronavirus

Islamabad: Montegi Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a telephone talk with H.E. Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Foreign Minister of of Pakistan.

At the outset, Foreign Minister Motegi expressed his gratitude for the support from the Government of Pakistan that repatriated Japanese nationals residing in Pakistan in mid-April.

Foreign Minister Motegi requested continued cooperation for ensuring the safety of Japanese nationals in Pakistan. Foreign Minister Qureshi explained the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) situation in Pakistan as well as efforts by the Government of Pakistan.

In addition, Foreign Minister Qureshi showed his appreciation for Foreign Minister Motegi’s explanation of Japan’s support for Pakistan related to COVID-19. The two Ministers shared the importance of cooperation within the international community against the global spread of COVID-19, and confirmed that the two Ministers will continue to promote bilateral cooperation.

Furthermore, Foreign Minister Motegi showed his intention to advance various bilateral dialogues and people-to-people exchanges, once COVID-19 situation calms down. In response, Foreign Minister Qureshi expressed his willingness to strengthen Japan-Pakistan relations. The two Ministers shared the view to further develop bilateral relations toward the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Pakistan in 2022.

On the telephone talk between the two Foreign Ministers, Ambassador MATSUDA Kuninori welcomed the exchange of views on future prospect of Japan-Pakistan relationship between the two leaders and renewed his resolve to further boost the interaction and cooperation between the two countries.