Friday, April 17, 2009

The Prime Minister Attends the Friends of Democratic Pakistan Group Ministerial Meeting

Prime Minister Taro Aso attended the Friends of Democratic Pakistan Group Ministerial Meeting held at a hotel in Tokyo.

The meeting was hosted by the Government of Pakistan for the international community to demonstrate its stance on joining hands to support Pakistan's efforts in tackling difficult challenges such as economic problems and terrorism. This time, 29 countries including Pakistan and 15 related organizations attended the meeting.

In his address, Prime Minister Aso said, "Pakistan plays a crucial role in the international efforts against terrorism and extremism. I would like to express my respect for the leaders of Pakistan and its people who have made many sacrifices in confronting the inhumane act of terrorism. There is no stability in Afghanistan without stability in Pakistan. Nor is there stability in Pakistan without stability in Afghanistan. I would especially like to stress the key importance of stability in the border regions, and that the international community must support the two countries' independent efforts toward a comprehensive strategy mapping."

Related Link

• Pakistan Donors Conference and Friends of Democratic Pakistan Group Ministerial Meeting (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
• Japan-Pakistan Relations (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)