The celebration of His Majesty Emperor Naruhito’s 66th birthday in Islamabad this week went far beyond ceremonial diplomacy. Hosted by Japan’s Ambassador to Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Akamatsu Shuichi, the event underscored a renewed momentum in Japan–Pakistan relations, marked by political alignment, economic cooperation, and expanding cultural and people-to-people exchanges.
Held at the Serena Hotel, Islamabad, the reception was attended by President of Pakistan H.E. Asif Ali Zardari as the chief guest, alongside senior government officials, diplomats, business leaders, and representatives from Japanese companies operating in Pakistan.
Japan’s Political Transition and Its Global Implications
In his remarks, Ambassador Akamatsu highlighted recent political developments in Japan, including the successful general election for the House of Representatives and the formation of a government led by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, Japan’s first female prime minister.
The ambassador emphasized that the strong mandate secured by the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) reflects continuity in Japan’s core policy priorities, particularly:
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Commitment to the rule of law
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Support for multilateralism
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Advocacy for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP)
These principles, he noted, remain central to Japan’s foreign policy at a time of increasing geopolitical uncertainty across Asia and beyond.
Pakistan’s Strategic Role on the Global Stage
Ambassador Akamatsu also underlined Pakistan’s growing diplomatic relevance, particularly its role as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.
Japan, he said, is keen to work closely with Pakistan on global and regional challenges, signaling alignment on issues such as peacekeeping, international security, and development cooperation.
This framing positions Pakistan not merely as a bilateral partner, but as a stakeholder in broader multilateral decision-making — an important shift in tone amid evolving regional dynamics.
Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025: A Turning Point in Soft Diplomacy
A key highlight of the evening was the success of the Pakistan Pavilion at the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025, which won:
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Bronze Prize in the Exhibition Category
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Editors’ Choice Award
According to Ambassador Akamatsu, the pavilion helped spark renewed interest and goodwill toward Pakistan among Japanese citizens, strengthening people-to-people perceptions beyond official diplomacy.
The Expo also served as a catalyst for high-level bilateral exchanges, including official visits to Japan by:
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Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan
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Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz
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Prime Minister’s Special Advisor on Industry and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan
These visits, he noted, marked the revival of sustained political and economic engagement between the two countries.
Three Pillars for Strengthening Japan–Pakistan Relations
Looking ahead, Ambassador Akamatsu outlined three strategic areas that will define bilateral cooperation in the coming year.
People-to-People Exchange
Japan aims to expand exchanges through cultural, educational, and sporting platforms, including:
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Participation and engagement during the Asian Games and Asian Para Games to be held in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, later this year
Such initiatives are designed to deepen mutual understanding at the societal level, particularly among youth and professionals.
Economic and Development Cooperation
Economic ties are expected to gain momentum through:
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Plans to resume yen loan projects under Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA)
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Expansion of technical cooperation and talent development in Pakistan’s growing IT sector
These measures align with Pakistan’s development priorities while reinforcing Japan’s role as a long-term development partner.
Cultural Diplomacy Through Japanese Cuisine
The ambassador also highlighted the promotion of Japanese cuisine as a form of soft power, emphasizing its association with longevity and healthy living.
Beyond globally popular dishes like sushi and tempura, special attention was given to wagyu beef, which was featured at the reception as a symbol of Japan’s culinary heritage.
Condolences and Solidarity Against Terrorism
Addressing recent events in Pakistan, Ambassador Akamatsu expressed deep condolences to the victims of a terrorist attack at a mosque in Islamabad.
He reiterated that Japan strongly condemns all forms of terrorism and reaffirmed Tokyo’s solidarity with the government and people of Pakistan, underscoring shared values in the fight against extremism.
Cultural Showcase and Corporate Presence
The reception also featured exhibitions of Japanese traditional arts, including:
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Ikebana (flower arrangement) by the Lahore Sogetsu Study Group
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Bonsai displays by the Lahore Bonsai Society
In addition, stalls by JICA and major Japanese companies showcased Japan’s long-standing economic footprint in Pakistan. Participating firms included:
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Toyota Indus Motors
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Suzuki
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Honda
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Hino
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Idemitsu
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Sojitz
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Kumon
Their presence highlighted the depth of Japan’s industrial, educational, and energy partnerships with Pakistan.
A Relationship Shaped for a New Era
Ambassador Akamatsu concluded by expressing hope that people-to-people exchanges between Japan and Pakistan will become even more dynamic, paving the way for a cooperative relationship aligned with the demands of a new era.
The celebration of Emperor Naruhito’s birthday in Islamabad thus served not only as a diplomatic tradition but as a strategic signal — reflecting Japan’s renewed political confidence, Pakistan’s growing international role, and a shared vision for deeper bilateral engagement across diplomacy, development, culture, and commerce.
