The latest development in the strengthening of Pakistan-Japan relations is highlighted by the recent Japan-Pakistan Business Seminar 2026, where Haroon Akhtar, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production, assured Japanese automobile manufacturers of Pakistan's commitment to addressing their concerns. As reported by Dawn on February 11, 2026, Akhtar emphasized the importance of the automotive sector, stating, 'Japanese automakers have been at the forefront of Pakistan’s automotive industry, creating jobs, transferring technology and supporting local supply chains.' He acknowledged issues such as tax refunds and export hurdles, promising to resolve these in partnership with stakeholders to ensure 'robust, competitive, and mutually beneficial' industrial participation. Japanese Ambassador Akamatsu Shuichi noted that Japanese companies have created over 100,000 jobs in Pakistan, underscoring their significant economic impact.