TOKYO, Dec 27: Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Aso said on Tuesday he will visit India and Pakistan in January in a bid to strengthen bilateral ties with the South Asian nations. Politics, national security, the economy and reform of the UN Security Council will be on the agenda for the talks with Indian officials, Aso said.

Discussions with Pakistan are expected to touch on anti-terrorism measures and aid efforts following the deadly October earthquake there.

The planned visit follows a trip by Japanese Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi to the two nations in April.—AFP