TOKYO: In a significant move to strengthen bilateral academic and cultural links, Pakistan’s Ambassador-designate to Japan, H.E. Mr. Abdul Hameed, has held high-level discussions with the leadership of two prominent Japanese institutions: Saitama University (SU) and the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies (TUFS). The courtesy calls underscore the growing focus on educational and research collaboration as a pillar of the Pakistan-Japan relationship.
Ambassador-designate Hameed, accompanied by Counsellor Mr. Chaudhary Talha Bin Khalid, paid a courtesy call to Prof. Dr. Takafumi Sakai, President of Saitama University. The university, known for its strong programs in science and engineering, plays an important role in the Japanese academic landscape.
The delegation engaged in substantive talks on future academic and cultural exchanges between the two nations. Saitama University’s representation at the meeting was extensive, signalling the institution’s commitment. Also attended the meeting includes Prof. Dr. Hideo Ichihashi, Vice President for International and Global Education, Prof. Dr. Ken Kawamoto, Assistant Prof. Dr. Usama Zafar from the Graduate School of Science and Engineering and Associate Prof. Takako Ochi of the International Office.
The presence of senior academic and international relations staff suggests a readiness to explore concrete mechanisms for collaboration, such as student exchange programs, joint research projects, or faculty exchange, particularly in scientific and technical fields where Pakistan has a strong and growing pool of talent.
Continuing his diplomatic outreach to the education sector, Mr. Abdul Hameed also visited the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies (TUFS), meeting with President HARUNA Nobuo. TUFS is a world-renowned institution specializing in foreign languages, international relations, and regional studies, offering a platform for deep cultural and linguistic exchange.
Joined by Professor Amir Ali Khan, the discussions at TUFS focused on exploring future academic collaboration and partnership opportunities. Given TUFS’s unique mission, this collaboration could potentially involve launching a dedicated Pakistani language or culture program, establishing joint research centers for South Asian studies and facilitating scholar and student mobility focused on cross-cultural understanding.
These initial high-level meetings set an optimistic tone for the Ambassador-designate’s tenure, positioning academic cooperation as a priority for his mission in Tokyo. Stronger educational ties between Pakistan and Japan are seen as a vital way to foster mutual understanding and long-term economic and technical cooperation.