Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced plans to draw inspiration from Japan’s advanced urban development strategies and environmental sustainability practices to transform cities across Punjab.
Leading a high-level delegation, the Chief Minister visited Yokohama—Japan’s commercial, economic, and cultural hub—where she received detailed briefings on innovative urban planning models at the Yokohama Town Hall. During the visit, both sides agreed to establish a “City-to-City Partnership” between Punjab and Yokohama, focusing on environmental protection, sustainable urban planning, and improved municipal services.
Highlighting her vision for urban transformation, CM Maryam Nawaz stated that practical measures will be undertaken to raise the construction standards of roads and buildings in Punjab to match those of Japan. Discussions were also held between the Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA) and officials in Yokohama to explore collaborative opportunities in various development sectors.
The Punjab delegation further evaluated the prospects of Japanese support for upgrading Pakistan’s railway infrastructure, including a proposed high-speed train project between Lahore and Islamabad. CM Maryam also reviewed modern Japanese transportation technologies, including advanced chairlift and air cabin systems, which could be adapted for tourism and urban mobility in Punjab.
It is worth noting that Yokohama, part of the “Keihin Industrial Region” alongside Tokyo and Kawasaki, is Japan’s second-largest city by population and one of its most developed urban centers. In May 2025, the Asian Development Bank declared Yokohama the leading city in Asia in terms of environmental progress during its annual conference.
The visit marks a significant step in Punjab’s efforts to modernize its cities, embrace green technologies, and foster international cooperation for sustainable development.
