ISLAMABAD, JAN 25 (DNA) – Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has said that Pakistan regards Japan as a close friend and a reliable economic partner.

 PM further said that Law and order situation in the country has significantly improved as a consequence of operation “Zarb-e-Azb” and Pakistan hopes Japan would review Pakistan’s inclusion in Travel Advisory list in this regard.

PM said this during a meeting with Takashi KURAI, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan.

Emphasizing on bilateral relations, PM said that Pakistan looks forward to greater level of cooperation between the two countries particularly in the areas of trade, investment, infrastructure and energy.

PM stated that both sides need to initiate negotiations on bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Japan may also consider a 3-4 year exception for Pakistani textiles under its Temporary Tariff Measures to bring Pakistan at par with its competitors which enjoy free access to Japanese market, added the Prime Minister.

PM also welcomed companies from Japan to invest in Pakistan that would enhance the capacity of Pakistan industrial sector to produce value added goods.

Ambassador of Japan appreciated Pakistan’s economic growth and stated that Pakistan’s perception particularly in Japan has changed to a business-friendly country. The Ambassador further added that Japan gives importance to investment security, infrastructure and business friendly environment and in all three aspects Pakistan has achieved marked improvement.=DNA

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