Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for enhanced cooperation with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in the areas of mineral resource development, vocational skills training, and the promotion of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), describing these sectors as central to Pakistan’s long-term economic growth strategy.
The remarks came during a meeting at the Prime Minister’s House on Wednesday with a nine-member JICA delegation led by its President, Dr Tanaka Akihiko.
PM Highlights Importance of Minerals Sector
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz said Pakistan highly values its longstanding partnership with Japan and JICA, which has spanned more than seven decades.
He welcomed JICA’s technical cooperation in Pakistan’s minerals sector, emphasizing that the development of the country’s mineral resources remains one of the government’s key priorities.
The prime minister expressed confidence that Dr Akihiko’s visit would further strengthen bilateral relations and deepen development cooperation between Pakistan and Japan.
Economic Reforms and Youth Empowerment
Prime Minister Shehbaz said Pakistan had overcome significant economic challenges through coordinated reforms and was now focused on achieving sustainable economic growth.
He stated that government revenues had doubled over the past three years as a result of the reform agenda, adding that investing in human capital remains a major priority.
According to the prime minister, the government is focusing on:
- Expanding vocational and technical skills training for young people.
- Creating dignified employment opportunities.
- Promoting women’s economic empowerment.
- Supporting sustainable economic development through institutional reforms.
He stressed that equipping the country’s youth with modern skills is essential for increasing productivity and improving employment prospects.
Greater Support for Small Businesses
The prime minister also highlighted reforms carried out in the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA), saying the institution has been transformed into a more active and effective organization to support Pakistan’s SME sector.
He noted that stronger cooperation between JICA and SMEDA could help improve the competitiveness of small businesses, boost entrepreneurship, and increase Pakistan’s exports.
SMEs are widely regarded as a key driver of employment and economic activity, contributing significantly to industrial development and private-sector growth.
JICA Reaffirms Commitment to Pakistan
JICA President Dr Tanaka Akihiko reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to expanding cooperation with Pakistan across multiple development sectors.
He said JICA is prepared to strengthen collaboration in areas including:
- Healthcare
- Education
- Urban development
- Rural development
- Vocational and technical training
- Industrial development
Dr Akihiko added that future cooperation would align with the development priorities identified by Pakistan’s federal and provincial governments.
Appreciation for Regional Peace Efforts
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz also conveyed condolences over the loss of lives in the recent earthquake in Japan.
Dr Akihiko thanked the prime minister for his message of sympathy and expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s support.
He also said Japan and the wider international community recognize Pakistan’s efforts to promote peace in the Middle East and welcomed the country’s diplomatic engagement on regional issues.
Senior Officials Attend Meeting
The meeting was attended by several senior members of the federal government, including Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Ahad Khan Cheema, Musadik Malik, Hanif Abbasi, Awais Leghari, and Shaza Fatima Khawaja, along with Special Assistants to the Prime Minister Syed Tariq Fatemi and Haroon Akhtar, as well as senior officials from relevant government institutions.
The discussions reflected the longstanding partnership between Pakistan and Japan and highlighted both sides’ interest in expanding cooperation to support economic development, skills enhancement, industrial growth, and sustainable investment in Pakistan.
