By. IRFAN SIDDIQUI
TOKYO
Kaleem Farooqui, a prominent figure in fostering Pakistan-Japan relations, has made significant contributions through his leadership in the Pakistan Japan Business Forum (PJBF) and other cultural and business initiatives. Here’s an overview of his efforts:
Business and Economic Contributions
As the chairman and a founding member of PJBF, Farooqui has played a pivotal role in strengthening economic ties between Pakistan and Japan. His leadership facilitated multiple trade and investment opportunities, with notable accomplishments including:
• Leading SME delegations to Japan from 2015 to 2018, which created business-to-business networking platforms and encouraged collaborations between Japanese and Pakistani enterprises .
• Organizing the publication of “Concordia” to commemorate 60 years of Pakistan-Japan relations. This book highlighted the shared history of diplomatic and trade cooperation, further fostering mutual understanding and goodwill .
• Actively participating in the Joint Government Business Dialogue in Islamabad, 2022, aimed at discussing policy and trade improvements between the two nations .Recognition and Awards
For his enduring efforts, the Japanese government awarded Kaleem Farooqui the “Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon” in 2023. This is one of Japan’s highest civilian honors, recognizing individuals who strengthen Japan’s international ties. Additionally, he received commendations from the Consulate-General of Japan in Karachi for his dedication to promoting trade and cultural exchange .
Cultural and Social Initiatives
Farooqui’s efforts extend beyond business:
• As an honorary patron of the Pakistan Japan Cultural Association (PJCA), Sindh, he has been instrumental in organizing cultural events and fostering deeper connections between the societies of both countries.
• He consistently supports the Consulate General of Japan’s initiatives in Karachi, emphasizing the value of cultural diplomacy alongside economic cooperation .Broader Impacts
Farooqui’s contributions have helped attract significant Japanese investments to Pakistan across various sectors. His work emphasizes improving the understanding of Pakistan’s market potential among Japanese businesses, showcasing the country’s evolving economic landscape and investment-friendly policies .
By bridging gaps between the two nations, Kaleem Farooqui has solidified his role as a critical player in nurturing Pakistan-Japan relations. His efforts demonstrate how economic and cultural diplomacy can complement each other to enhance bilateral ties.
