Irfan Siddiqi, Tokyo Japan
Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, arrived in Tokyo today on her much-anticipated official visit to Japan, where she was given a grand and enthusiastic reception. At a leading five-star hotel in Tokyo, a large number of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) members and Pakistani community representatives had gathered well in advance, waiting to welcome her with slogans, cheers, and applause.
As Maryam Nawaz entered the hotel premises, the hall erupted with slogans of “Maryam Nawaz Zindabad” and “Nawaz Sharif Qadam Barhao, Hum Tumharay Saath Hain” (Long live Maryam Nawaz, Nawaz Sharif move forward, we are with you). Party workers, waving green crescent-and-star flags and holding placards and banners adorned with welcome messages, demonstrated their excitement and loyalty. The atmosphere resembled a festive celebration, filled with passion and devotion.
The reception was attended by prominent figures of PML-N’s overseas chapter. Among them were former International Affairs General Secretary Sheikh Qaiser Mahmood, PML-N Japan President Malik Noor Awan, Chairman Malik Younas, General Secretary Shams Butt, Senior Vice President Qadeer Mughal, Chaudhry Ansar, Information Secretary Malik Kashif Awan, senior leader Nasir Gujjar, along with Abrar Shah, Waseem Kamboh, Shahid Majeed, Atif Butt, Abdul Sattar, and several other office bearers and workers. Their presence reflected the unity and strength of PML-N’s overseas network, particularly in Japan.
Speaking at the event, party leaders highlighted that Maryam Nawaz’s arrival has infused fresh energy and motivation into PML-N’s workers abroad. They noted that her leadership embodies not only a new political vision but also renewed hope for Pakistan’s progress. According to them, her official visit will not only enhance the friendly ties between Pakistan and Japan but also strengthen the relationship between the government and overseas Pakistanis.
A special highlight of the evening was the arrival of Raja Amir Iqbal, President of PML-N South Korea, who traveled especially to Japan to welcome Maryam Nawaz Sharif. Talking to the media, he said, “Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s visit is a beacon of hope for overseas Pakistanis. She has always shown deep interest in addressing the issues faced by Pakistanis living abroad. This tour will also open new avenues for investment and bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Japan.”
Participants further expressed their belief that Maryam Nawaz represents development, prosperity, and people-centric governance in Pakistan. Her politics, they stressed, is based on service, transparency, and welfare. Overseas Pakistanis present at the event voiced their expectation that the Chief Minister will announce policies during her stay in Japan that will directly benefit expatriates, especially in terms of community support and opportunities for engagement with Pakistan’s development.
The gathering, which turned into a highly spirited celebration, demonstrated the deep affection and admiration overseas Pakistanis have for the PML-N leader. With loud chants, floral bouquets, and emotional expressions of loyalty, the evening highlighted the symbolic importance of Maryam Nawaz’s overseas presence.
Her visit is being seen not only as a political milestone for PML-N but also as a step toward building stronger cultural, economic, and political ties between Pakistan and Japan.
