PM Shehbaz Sharif to visit Japan in October, first Pakistani premier in two decades to make trip

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to embark on an official visit to Japan from October 7 to 9, marking the first trip by a Pakistani head of government to Tokyo in 20 years, diplomatic sources revealed Friday.

The upcoming visit is being described as a significant step in strengthening Pakistan’s ties with Japan, a long-standing economic partner and development ally. Officials said the Prime Minister’s engagements in Tokyo will include high-level meetings with Japanese leadership aimed at expanding bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, defence, and technology.

Before heading to Japan, Prime Minister Shehbaz will travel to Malaysia from September 5 to 7, where he is expected to hold discussions on boosting economic, defence, and cultural cooperation between the two countries. The visit underscores Islamabad’s ongoing diplomatic outreach in Asia, with a focus on enhancing regional partnerships.

Diplomatic sources further disclosed that Malaysia’s military leadership, including the chiefs of the Armed Forces and the Navy, are also scheduled to visit Pakistan in the coming weeks, signalling closer defence cooperation between the two nations.

Meanwhile, a high-level Turkish delegation is also expected to arrive in Islamabad next week, underscoring Pakistan’s continued efforts to deepen its strategic and economic engagements with friendly states in the region.

Officials say the series of high-level visits reflects Pakistan’s push to diversify its diplomatic and economic ties while showcasing its commitment to strengthening partnerships in East and Southeast Asia.

Reporter: Anwer Abbas