23 September 2013

I am pleased to introduce myself as the new Ambassador of Japan. I have just arrived in Islamabad on September 6th, and I am looking forward to working with the people and the Government of Pakistan as well as the Japanese nationals residing in Pakistan.

This is not my first visit to Pakistan. I have been to this country several times in my 35 years of career in Foreign Service. Especially, during my tenure as the Director-General, in charge of Southeast and Southwest Asian Affairs in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, I did have great memories working with Pakistani friends. Previously being involved in this region myself, I was quite impressed that this country with a population of 180 million holds tremendous potentials. As the newly assigned Ambassador, I feel much honored to represent Japan in Pakistan. I am thrilled and pleased to further develop our mutual relations together with you.

As we celebrated the 60th anniversary of our diplomatic relation last year, both the countries have happily maintained cordial relations in various fields of foreign policy, culture and people’s exchange. Pakistan has been one of the important economic partners for Japan, symbolized by the textile industries, well over half a century. I believe that the economic ties between Japan and Pakistan are further to be strengthened.

Culture has been an integral part of our strong friendship all the time. Knowing that the cultural bond stems from the Ghandara civilization, I would like to actively support events and programs which encourage the people of both the countries to understand eachother.

I am determined to make utmost efforts to further promote and expand the Japan-Pakistan relations with your support and friendship.

Thank You
Bohat Shukriya