Punjab and Japan have taken another step toward strengthening their long-standing development partnership as Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif met Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) President Dr. Akihiko Tanaka and his delegation in Lahore to review ongoing projects and discuss future collaboration.
The meeting focused on accelerating development initiatives across Punjab, with both sides discussing cooperation in public welfare, infrastructure, education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, and human resource development.
Welcoming the Japanese delegation, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz described JICA as one of Punjab’s key development partners, acknowledging its long-standing contribution to several important sectors across the province.
A major part of the discussions centered on the progress of Faisalabad’s water supply projects, while both sides also explored opportunities to expand cooperation in education, vocational training, and skills development.
Special emphasis was placed on programmes aimed at women’s empowerment and strengthening human resource capacity. The participants also reviewed JICA-supported initiatives in maternal and child healthcare, highlighting the importance of improving healthcare services for families across Punjab.
The meeting further stressed the need to increase access to education, particularly by bringing more girls and children from underserved communities into schools through inclusive development initiatives.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz appreciated JICA’s continued support for Punjab’s development agenda and praised the agency’s role in creating employment opportunities and improving the quality of life through sustainable projects.
The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to expanding cooperation and advancing joint initiatives that promote inclusive growth, strengthen public services, and support Punjab’s long-term socio-economic development.
