FARUKH SHEHZAD

DNA

ISLAMABAD, OCT 12: The Australian High Commission and the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia marked the 20th Anniversary of the Bali terrorist bombings on 12 October with a commemorative ceremony in Islamabad.

The memorial paid tribute to the courage and resilience of those affected by the attacks of 12 October 2002, which killed 202 innocent people, including 88 Australians and 38 Indonesians, and wounded hundreds more.

Speaking at the commemorative ceremony today, Australian High Commissioner Neil Hawkins highlighted the subsequent close cooperation between Australia and Indonesia and emphasised the commitment of both countries to countering terrorism and violent extremism.

“The shared grief of the Australian and Indonesian peoples gave rise to a shared resolve: Australia and Indonesia have worked together to strengthen regional responses to the threat of terrorism and violent extremism.” Mr Hawkins said.

Indonesian Ambassador Adam Tugio remarked that successful prevention of violent acts of extremism calls for an inclusive approach involving youth, professional media, religious leaders and relevant stakeholders both at national and global level.

“Two-decade remembrance of tragedy in Bali is a valuable opportunity to renew and reiterate our collective commitment to strengthen the voice of moderation, tolerance and respect for cultural diversity”, added Mr. Tugio.

The ceremony was attended by representatives from across the diplomatic community, including other nations who lost citizens in the bombings.

In addition to the ceremony in Islamabad, the occasion was marked with commemorative events in Australia and Indonesia, including local communities in Bali.

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DNA

ISLAMABAD, OCT 11: Col Mahmoud Hassan, Defence Attache of Egypt hosted a reception to mark The Great October War Victory (Egyptian Armed Forces Day) at Islamabad Serena Hotel.

Air Marshal Irfan Ahmed HI (M) Deputy Chief of the Air Staff was the chief guest. –DNA

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Islamabad, JUN 28: The Government of Japan today announced grant aid worth 313 million Japanese Yen (around 2.4 million USD) for the Human Resource Development Scholarship (JDS) program in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

Mr. ISHII Kensuke, Charge d’ Affaires ad interim of Japan to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and Mr. Mian Asad Hayaud Din, Secretary of Ministry of Economic Affairs, have signed the Exchange of Notes (E/N) on this program. The Grant Agreement (G/A) for the aforementioned program was also signed between Mr. Adil Akbar Khan, Joint Secretary of Ministry of Economic Affairs and Mr. KINOSHITA Yasumitsu, Chief Representative of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Pakistan Office.

JDS is designed to support social and economic development of the country by providing government officials to obtain Master’s or Doctoral degree in Japan in order to strengthen the administrative capacity of officials. The participants of JDS program who are involved in formulation and implementation of policies are expected to learn in partner universities in Japan and acquire knowledge of their specialties as well as the know-hows of how Japan became a country as it is today.

As JDS in Pakistan started from 2018 and has four batches in four consecutive years, the first phase concluded this year. This occasion celebrates the signing of the very first batch of the second phase of this program. For this batch, the maximum number of the slots for JDS participants in Pakistan is 17 seats for the Master’s degree and one seat for the Doctoral degree.

Mr. KINOSHITA while speaking at the event said "It is worth stating that Japan and Pakistan are celebrating 70 years of anniversary this year. We hope that JDS fellows as well as those 7,000 JICA training participants supported under Technical Cooperation Program will build broader human networks that will benefit both Pakistan and Japan in the long run. "

Mr. ISHII highlighted that "JDS scholarship is expected to contribute to strengthening the administrative capacities of government of Pakistan by providing the talented government officials with the opportunity to obtain the Master and Doctor of Philosophy degree, so that they can effectively lead the social and economic development of Pakistan. I hope this project would further contribute to strengthening the friendship between the two countries."

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ISLAMABAD, MAY 27: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Friday while underscoring his government’s efforts for creating business-friendly opportunities, invited new Japanese companies to avail themselves of such opportunities and invest in Pakistan.

The prime minister, in a meeting with Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan Mitsuhiro Wada here, assured that the government would extend all possible facilitation to Japanese investors.

Conveying Pakistan’s firm resolve to elevate this relationship to new heights, the prime minister emphasized the importance of deepening bilateral cooperation, especially in the areas of trade, development, education, IT, climate change, and infrastructure.

During the course of their conversation, views were exchanged on further strengthening the existing Pakistan-Japan bilateral relationship. The prime minister recalled that the year 2022 was being observed as the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two nations.

He also appreciated that the special events being organized to commemorate this landmark occasion were a reflection of the special relationship that Pakistan enjoyed with Japan. The prime minister was deeply appreciative of JICA’s ongoing programmes and meaningful contribution for supporting socio-economic and development sectors in Pakistan.

Ambassador Wada recalled Japan’s longstanding bilateral cooperation with Pakistan in diverse fields and expressed his government’s commitment to working together for the achievement of shared goals and objectives.

The ambassador also conveyed Japan’s appreciation for Pakistan’s facilitation in the post-15 August 2021 evacuation of Japanese nationals from Afghanistan, following the takeover of the Taliban.

While underlining the need to maintain the momentum of high-level exchanges, the prime minister extended a cordial invitation to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida to undertake a visit to Pakistan, at an early date.

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Islamabad, APR 28: On the auspicious occasion of the anniversary day when Japan and Pakistan officially established diplomatic relations on April 28 seventy years ago, Prime Minister KISHIDA Fumio conveyed his congratulatory remarks to celebrate the 70 years of bilateral diplomatic relations.

In the message, Honorable KISHIDA Fumio, the Prime Minister of Japan has extended his congratulations to Honorable Shehbaz Sharif on his assumption of office as Prime Minister. PM KISHIDA also congratulates the people of both Japan and Pakistan for successful seventy years of their bilateral relations.

Japan established diplomatic relations with Pakistan on 28th April, 1952, the very day when the San Francisco Peace Treaty went into effect and Japan regained its independence. Today marks exactly 70 years since then, and I am very pleased to celebrate this milestone with all of you. Japan and Pakistan have nurtured friendly relations over the years, extending support to each other when in need, said PM Kishida.

The PM mentioned that in the postwar period, cotton exported from Pakistan to Japan backed its textile industry and greatly encouraged Japan's postwar reconstruction. In turn, Japan has continuously provided Pakistan with assistance mainly in its areas of expertise, such as water, healthcare, education and disaster management.

"Both Japan and Pakistan are disaster-prone countries, and we have supported each other through the years. When Pakistan was struck by a massive earthquake in 2005 and by severe floods in 2010, Japan dispatched its disaster relief team and provided yen loans and grant aid. When the Great East Japan Earthquake occurred in 2011, Pakistan not only delivered relief goods, such as milk and biscuits, but Pakistani people residing in Japan traveled to the affected areas to serve hot meals to disaster victims" he added.

He also mentioned that recently, when the situation in Afghanistan deteriorated last August, Pakistan extended generous support to Japan to facilitate the safe departure from Afghanistan of Japanese nationals and Afghan staffs working in the Japanese Embassy and the JICA office.

He said Pakistan is located in a strategic place that connects Asia and the Middle East. It is, therefore, one of the most important countries not only for the stability of the region but also for international counter-terrorism efforts. In this context, we would like to cooperate with Pakistan to realize a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific".

PM Kishida said that "In this milestone year, I wish to elevate our bilateral relations to new heights. I am determined to work with PM Shehbaz Sharif and the people of Pakistan even more closely for that purpose".

He expressed his sincere wishes for the prosperity of our two countries and the further deepening of the friendship between the peoples of Japan and Pakistan.

JICA also celebrates this important day with the video titled "A story of Friendship and Assistance". Among diverse ties between the two countries, development cooperation is a major factor to bear witness to the solid foundation underpinning the relations.

This short animated film is the story of a girl named Areeba Saleha, born to a family hailing from Abbottabad, Pakistan. Her lifelong friendship with JICA started with her birth at the Children's Hospital in Islamabad. Areeba's parents raised her through thick and thin, but JICA's assistance in health, disaster management, education, and water and sanitation, at every step of the way, did befriend her. Today, Areeba has set up her own fashion apparel brand and is a role model for many children like her who deserve a good life. Her story embodies JICA's vision and mission of decades of partnership with the people of Pakistan.

You will find the link to this video on the FB of both Japanese Embassy and JICA.

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Islamabad, MAR 18: A grassroots grant assistance project for construction of a special education self-support training center for persons with disabilities in Lahore, funded by the Government of Japan, was inaugurated on March 18, 2022.

The Government of Japan had provided a US$74,173 grant (equivalent to around PKR 13 million ) to Milestone Society for the Special Persons, a local NGO working for spreading awareness and accessibility for persons with disabilities, for implementing the project.

At the inauguration ceremony, WADA Mitsuhiro, the Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan congratulated the organization for completing the project in a professional way. 

He also showed great appreciation for its staff members who work wholeheartedly as a team for encouraging persons with disabilities to be independent and take an active part in community.

Shafiq Ur Rehman, President of Milestone, while speaking on the occasion thanked the people of Japan for the well-equipped facility and expressed his hope that the training programs conducted at this self-support training center will contribute more to promoting independence and employability of persons with disabilities.

The Government of Japan will continue to provide flexible and timely support to improve the social well-being of the people of Pakistan at the grassroots level in cooperation with local organizations.

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ISLAMABAD, MAR 15: The Embassy of Japan held two Japanese Calendars Exhibitions 2022 in Islamabad in cooperation with the MEXT Alumni Association of Pakistan (MAAP), the Quaid-e-Azam University and the National Skills University.

The exhibition at the Quaid-e-Azam University was inaugurated by WADA Mitsuhiro, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan together with the Vice-Chancellor of the Quaid-e-Azam University Dr. M Ali and other guests on March 15th. Another exhibition was inaugurated by Mr. IWASAKI Ryuji, Cousellor, the head of Cultural Section together with the Vice Chancellor of the National Skills University Dr. Mukhatar and other guests on March 8th. 

Dr. Zabta Khan Shinwari, the President of the MAAP and other members attended both ceremonies. MAAP is the organization of former Japanese Government Scholarship alumnus in Pakistan.

The Japanese Calendars Exhibition is an annual feature of the cultural activities and is very popular among the people of Pakistan. This year, around 65 calendars have been put on display in the exhibition with the cooperation of Japan Calendars Association and various Japanese companies. The calendars exhibited showcase a vibrant depiction of the Japanese heritage and cultural identity by reflecting images from traditional to contemporary area such as arts, sports, automobiles, nature, heritage and architecture of Japan.

Ambassador WADA, while speaking at the inaugural ceremony said that the purpose for holding this exhibition is to introduce various facets of Japan to the people of Pakistan as a variety of calendars have been put on display which represent the beauty as well as the true life image of Japan. 

He emphasized the significance of this year's exhibition being held twice in Islamabad for the first time by mentioning that this is very good development as more and more Pakistani students can feel Japan so close at this exhibition. 

This development surely will resonate the celebration of the 70th anniversary, said the Ambassador. The Ambassador also appreciated the support and cooperation extended by the MAAP, the Quaid-e-Azam University and National Skills University for holding this beautiful exhibition. 

Most of the calendars being displayed at the exhibition are produced by private Japanese companies, and are printed on recycled paper which is a fine example of Japan’s efforts to be eco-friendly.

As this year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Pakistan, the Embassy of Japan together with the Pakistani partners is holding a variety of activities to commemorate the historic relations aiming to promote people-to-people interactions and mutual understanding among the peoples of our two nations.

2nd Japanese calendar exhibition inaugurated at National Skills University 

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ISLAMABAD, MAR 11: The Government of Japan and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in close collaboration with the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (GoKP) and Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) supported 50,762 households under the “Project for Restoration of Livelihoods in the Merged Areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Phase II)” in Khyber and Kurram districts.

Japan’s grant of US$ 5.3 million was extended in continuation of the initial support of US$ 5 million for “The Project for Assistance to the Recovery and Development of the Agricultural Economy in FATA”, implemented from 2015 to 2017, as vital support for 77,200 returning families/households to rebuild their lives upon their return to home after years of displacement in KP Province.

The Phase II of the initial project focused on adopting climate-smart and resilient agricultural interventions, including the dissemination of improved practices for increasing livestock, poultry and inland fisheries’ production, introduction of efficient water harvesting methods, and rehabilitation of irrigation structures, and executed Integrated Natural Resource Management (INRM) plans.

Furthermore, the project also contributed to enhance agricultural productivity and value addition, and develop key value chains and functional markets for sustainable food supply and improved nutrition.

This year marks the 70th anniversary of a longstanding friendship between Japan and Pakistan, and this project shows a great example of how Japanese people have dedicated their support to the people of Pakistan.

The ceremony was held in Islamabad to celebrate the completion of the project, attended by the Ambassador of Japan, WADA Mitsuhiro, Chief Representative of JICA Pakistan, Mr. FURUTA Shigeki, FAO Representative in Pakistan, Mr. Farrukh Toirov, Secretary Agriculture, Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Dr. Muhammad Israr Khan, and high level officials of relevant departments of the Government of Pakistan.

Speaking on the occasion, WADA said, “We recognize the livelihoods in Pakistan have been increasingly affected by the Afghanistan humanitarian crisis, and we consider sustainable agriculture essential for securing livelihoods”, highlighting that “through our strong partnership demonstrated by this project, I hope we will continue to work together to achieve sustainable development in Pakistan.”

Mr. FURUTA Shigeki, Chief Representative of JICA Pakistan Office noted, “The project has contributed to ensuring food security through sustainable agriculture development, value addition in agriculture, and capacity development of those who engage in the fields of agriculture and livestock. 

It has also promoted the restoration and improvement of the livelihoods in Kurram and Khyber Districts. Building sustainable livelihoods is essential to achieve peace and stability in the region, and where peace and stability exists, further development and prosperity can be realized. 

Highlighting the achievements of the Project Mr. Farrukh Toirov, Deputy FAO Representative in Pakistan said, “He is very pleased to see that all the deliverables of this project are successfully achieved”. 

He thanked the JICA and Government of Japan for giving FAO an opportunity to support the repatriated IDPs in the Newly Merged Districts of KP.

He said that the economy of NMDs, based mainly on subsistence agriculture, has historically been weaker than the rest of the country, which was further accentuated by the mass-scale exodus of population to other areas as IDPs.

The support provided by the Government of Japan has played a very crucial role in the recovery and rehabilitation of the returned families in Khyber and Kurram district of KP. 

He said that during the implementation of the project, the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic in the start of 2020 had not only created a health-specific emergency but disrupted every sector of global, national and local economies. 

Furthermore, when the Government and other national and international partners were busy in coping with the effects of Covid-19, the locust invasion in different parts of the country posed another threat and further added to the people’s vulnerabilities of the target districts.

Therefore, apart from its original mandate, FAO also supported its target beneficiaries against the Covid-19 and Locust infestation. More than 50,700 HHs were supported through the provision of quality inputs to resume their agri-base livelihoods and to start new enterprises under agricultural value chains.

FAO has scaled-up its interventions to ascertain improved farming practices and enhance productivity and thus created linkages of farmers with the outside markets. He further said that by now, stabilization and wellbeing of the target HHs is mostly done, however, development initiatives need to further support the local market systems for enhanced jobs and incomes.

Secretary Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Cooperatives’ Department, Government of KP, Dr. Muhammad Israr Khan while appreciating the performance of the project said, “The Government and people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are extremely thankful to the people and the Government of Japan for their continued support in the rehabilitation and development efforts of the internally displaced families of the former FATA, now the NMDs of KP.” 

He said that the Government of Japan, through JICA, has been supporting the rehabilitation of IDPs in Khyber and Kurram districts since 2015.

During the 1st phase of their support from July 2015 to Sept 2017, about 77,000 families were assisted; and now under the 2nd phase started in April 2018 and ended in Dec 2021, more than 50,700 families have been supported. 

He said that agriculture is the mainstay of the people in the merged districts and plays a very pivotal role in their livelihoods. Therefore, the Government of KP is making all its efforts to enhance agriculture production and increase their sources of income through various developmental initiatives. 

He further said that apart from supporting IDPs, the Government of Japan and JICA have launched and implemented several other developmental projects in the province which have far reaching impacts on the livelihoods of the people.

He emphasized continued support from the Government of Japan and other donors to ensure sustainable development and stabilization of the area. 

The Secretary also expressed his sincere thanks to FAO Pakistan for augmenting their efforts through the support of various donors, including JICA and the Government of Japan.

Several project beneficiaries who had traveled to Islamabad from Kurram and Khyber districts to attend this gathering briefed the participants how had they benefitted from this project.

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ISLAMABAD, MAR 9: An inauguration ceremony for  “the  Project for Installation of Weather Surveillance Radar at Karachi”, funded by Japan, was held with ISOMURA Toshikazu, Consul General, Japan Consulate office Karachi, FURUTA Shigeki, Chief Representative, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Pakistan Office, Ghulam Sarwar Khan, Federal Minister for Aviation and Mr. Sahibzad Khan, Director General, Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD).

In this project, a new Weather Surveillance Radar was installed in Karachi at an approximate total cost of JPY 1.95 billion (approx. USD 17.71 Million) with the Japanese grant assistance.

The radar has been operational since April 2021. Japan supported the installation of four (4) radars in Pakistan. This Karachi radar covers the southern part, for a radius of 450 km.  With all the radars provided in Karachi, Islamabad, Multan (to be installed), and Sukkur (to be installed), the surveillance systems will cover more than 80% of the areas of Pakistan. The radars will be used for short-term weather forecasts, including monitoring thunderstorms and other atmospheric phenomena in the four provinces.

These state-of-the-art radar systems would enable Pakistan to effectively assess the probability of precipitation around the clock. They will result in a more accurate weather forecast, delivering early warning in a timely manner.

 “30 years ago, Japan supported the previous Karachi radar project with enthusiasm and I am excited to build on our effort to assist the disaster risk management in Pakistan. “, said Mr. ISOMURA Toshikazu, Consul General of Japan in Karachi.

 “I hope that the project enables Pakistan to forecast weather more accurately and contribute to the disaster resilience in Pakistan.”, said Mr. FURUTA Shigeki, Chief Representative, JICA Pakistan Office.

Pakistan has a high frequency of natural disasters such as floods, landslides, cyclones, and earthquakes. Quite notably, every year, Pakistan experiences heavy damages to the large parts of the country due to floods triggered by heavy rains during the monsoon season.

The Government of Japan and JICA will continue to assist the disaster risk management initiatives of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

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• “Japan and South Asia relations: Toward the more inclusive and sustainable future” 

ISLAMABAD, MAR 9: This year, Japan planning to celebrate anniversaries with the seven countries in South Asia. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan has designated 2022 as “Japan-Southwest Asia Exchange Year” with the aim of taking Japan’s relations with the countries of Southwest Asia to new heights.

https://www.mofa.go.jp/s_sa/sw/page24e_000326.html

The Ministry takes this opportunity to organize a webinar titled “Japan-South Asia relations: Toward the more inclusive and sustainable future” to discuss and think about the relations between Japan and South Asia in coming years, with the participation of the panelists from the 7 countries in South Asia.

Two Pakistani panelists also participate the webinar.

Date:  Wednesday, 16 March 2022

Time:  JST 15:00-17:30+

 　Pakistan: 11:00-13:30+

Language: English (English-Japanese simultaneous interpretation available for Japanese audience)

Registration required:　 https://forms.gle/V6S6oGdCxsCsWn4d8

Closing date for registration: Sunday, 8:00pm on 13 March 2022 (PST)

★Webinar URL will be sent to the registered e-mail address by the previous day of the webinar. In case the URL would not be received, please check the junk mail box.

<Programme>

Opening of the webinar

Welcome Remarks (Video message) by Mr. HONDA Taro, Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan

Session 1: Japan-South Asia relations: past, present, and future

◆Moderator:

Ms. MURAYAMA Mayumi, Executive Vice-President, Institute of Developing Economies (IDE-JETRO)

◆Panelists

〇Bangladesh: Dr. Delwar Hossain, Director, East Asia Center, University of Dhaka

〇Bhutan: Hon. Dasho Karma Ura, President, Centre for Bhutan Studies and GNH Studies

〇India: Prof. Srabani Roychoudhury, Centre for East Asian Studies, JNU

〇Maldives: Mr. Ibrahim Hood, Secretary, Foreign Relations, The President’s Office

〇Nepal:  Ms. Amira Dali, President, Love Green Nepal

〇Pakistan: Mr. Qamar Abbas Cheema, Lecturer, National University of Modern Languages

〇Sri Lanka: Senior Professor H.D. Karunaratne, University of Colombo

Session 2: Japan-South Asia: joint action for the future

◆Moderator: Prof. ISAKA Riho, the University of Tokyo

◆Panelists

〇Sri Lanka: Ms. Shayari De Silva, Curator, Art and Archival Collections, Geoffery Bawa Trust

〇Pakistan: Mr. Rehan Adamjee, Deputy Director, Strategy, Planning & Growth, Vital Pakistan

〇Nepal: Mr. Bhushan Dahal, Executive Director, Kids of Kathmandu

〇Maldives: Ms. Fathmath Fazleena Fakir, Managing Director, Business Center Corporation Limited

〇India: Dr. Titli Basu, Associate Fellow, East Asia Centre, IDSA

〇Bhutan: Hon. Phuntsho Rapten, Member, National Council

〇Bangladesh: Mr. Tahsan Khan, Singer-songwriter and actor

Wrap-up of the webinar by Prof. HORIMOTO Takenori, Visiting Professor, Gifu Women’s University.

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ISLAMABAD, MAR 4: WADA Mitsuhiro, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, strongly condemned the bomb blast in the mosque in Peshawar today and has expressed deep grief and sorrow over the loss of precious human lives in the tragic incident. 

The Ambassador also offers its heartfelt sympathy to those wounded in the attacks and wish their early recovery.

Japan accuses terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, committed for whatever purposes, and reiterates that no act of terrorism can be justified.

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ISLAMABAD, MAR 4: The Embassy of Japan and Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI) jointly organized a webinar titled “Afghanistan and South Asia” on Friday, March 4 to deliberate upon the various perspectives concerning existing situation in Afghanistan as well as to exchange views and knowledge on other subjects of regional and international interest. 

AOKI Kenta, Research Fellow, Middle East Institute of Japan, and KASAI Ryohei, Visiting Researcher, Center for South Asian Studies, Gifu Women’s University, Japan, were speakers from Japan.

AOKI deliberated upon “Resurgence of Taliban and Its Implications to Japan and Pakistan” Whereas Mr. KASAI spoke on “Japan’s Efforts in South Asia in an Age of SDGs, Pakistan’s Development Potential and Geostrategic Opportunities, Japan’s Role in Pakistan’s Comprehensive Development”.

The speakers from Pakistani side included Amb (R) Asif Durrani, Senior Research Fellow IPRI, who spoke on topic “Post-Taliban Afghanistan”, Dr. Maria Saifuddin Effendi, Asst. 

Professor, Peace & Conflict Studies, NDU, Islamabad, covered “Pakistan-India Relations and Kashmir”, whereas Rafiullah Kakar, CPEC/PPP Unit, Government of Balochistan lectured on “Regional Connectivity and CPEC”. 

Haroon Sharif, Former Minister of State & Chairman Board of Investment, Ex-Regional Advisor to World Bank Group for South and Central Asia and Mr. Abubakar Siddique, Senior Correspondent covering Pakistan and Afghanistan for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) also joined the webinar as discussants.

As this year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Pakistan, the webinar would help promote and develop not only intellectual exchange between the two countries but would also contribute towards further enhancing mutual understanding and exchange of information and knowledge on issues of regional and global importance.  

The webinar is available at Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5OFhWIoTGts 

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ISLAMABAD, MAR 4: Embassy of Japan and Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI) will jointly hold a webinar, titled “Afghanistan and South Asia”, today at 10:00am-12:15pm on March 4, 2022 (PKST).

Topic: IPRI - Japan Webinar: Afghanistan and South Asia

Date: March 4, 2022 10:00 AM Islamabad.

-   Youtube link is for the larger audience/public.

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5OFhWIoTGts 

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 28: Madam Naoko WADA, spouse of Ambassador of Japan celebrated the changing of seasons with ladies of diplomatic missions on the occasion of "Hina Matsuri (dolls festival)" and "Hanami(cherry blossom viewing)" at the Ambassador’s residence. 

 "Hina Matsuri" is celebrated on the 3rd of March. Japanese families with young girls celebrate this festival by displaying dolls, wishing for their sound growth, health and happiness.

"Hanami" is the Japanese traditional custom to enjoy the ephemeral beauty of flowers, especially cherry blossom in spring. These traditions began more than one thousand years ago in Japan.

The event started with an informative lecture regarding the Japanese culture relating to "Hina Matsuri" and "Hanami" which was followed by lunch under the cherry blossoms specially cooked for this occasion by the Japanese professional chef.  

They also celebrated the Emperor's birthday which is on the 23rd of February.

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ISLAMABAD, FEB 24:  Ambassador of Palestine in Islamabad Ahmed Ameen Rabei has conveyed deepest condolences to Pakistani nation on the passing of his friend senator and former interior minister Rehman Malik,

Ambassador of Palestine prayed that the Almighty Allah grant him Jannat ul Maqam and his family the strength to bear this great loss.

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ISLAMABAD, FEB 22: The Government of Japan has decided to provide grant assistance up to US$189,204 (equivalent to around PKR 33 million) to three NGO development projects in Pakistan. 

The recipients that will implement the projects are True Worth Foundation, Rehman Foundation, and Dir Area Development Organization (DADO). 

The grant contracts were signed between WADA Mitsuhiro, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, and representatives of the three organizations at the Ambassador’s residence in Islamabad on February 22, 2022. 

True Worth Foundation will receive a US$ 62,199 grant (equivalent to around PKR 10.8 million) to install computed radiography, an ambulance, and a generator in Al-Wadood Hospital run by the organization in Islamabad to provide local people with quality medical services at affordable prices. 

The computed radiography will enable the hospital to perform PCR testing and diagnose many more diseases. By introducing the ambulance, the operational and outreach capacity of the hospital in emergency circumstances will also be enhanced. 

Rehman Foundation will receive a US$ 65,800 grant (equivalent to around PKR 11.5 million) to install eight dialysis machines in Islamabad Dialysis Center run by the organization to strengthen the implementation structure of dialytic treatment.

The project will make it possible for dialysis patients to regularly take the treatment at minimal cost, and then ease the financial and physical burden on them. 

Dir Area Development Organization (DADO) will receive a US$ 61,205 grant (equivalent to around PKR 10.7 million) to construct a micro hydropower station in District Upper Dir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to supply reliable, low-cost, and environmentally-friendly electricity to local people. 

Its availability will allow them to use ceiling fans during the hot season and heating appliances in winter. Children will also be able to learn under an appropriate illumination level. 

At the signing ceremony, Ambassador WADA offered the three organizations his sincere congratulations for receiving the grants from the Japanese government.

He also hoped that these development projects would contribute to meeting basic human needs and improve the social well-being of Pakistani people. 

The Government of Japan will continue to support the socio-economic development in Pakistan at the grassroots level by working together with local NGOs through grant assistance.

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ISLAMABAD: Feb 16: The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Embassy of Japan in Islamabad today held a signing ceremony of Exchange of Notes for a USD 3.45 million grant project aimed at strengthening the operational capacities of border management authorities to contribute towards comprehensive migration management in Pakistan. 

The event – held at the IOM Office in Islamabad – was attended by H.E. Mr. WADA Mitsuhiro, the Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, Ms. Sarah Benazir, Section Officer – Migration Management Cell, Ministry of Interior of Pakistan, Mr. Qazi Saleem Ahmed Khan, Director HR & HA, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan and Ms. Mio Sato, IOM Chief of Mission in Pakistan.

As a remittance-dependent economy and a country hosting some 3 million Afghans, migration continues to play a key role in Pakistan’s development and constitutes a key priority for the Government in the forthcoming period, which is committed to strengthening overall migration management, as evidenced through various programmes and policies.

The support of the Government of Japan will enable IOM to contribute to the Government of Pakistan’s efforts to facilitate safe, orderly and regular migration, through implementation of efficient and effective border and migration management practices. 

Under the project, IOM will provide specialized and tailored capacity building support to immigration and border officials on effective management of borders, supplemented by the provision of document verification technology, and infrastructure and IT equipment at key points of entry. 

Efforts will also include training on identification, screening, and referral of victims of trafficking and vulnerable smuggled migrants.

 “Migration is a multi-faceted issue in Pakistan, presenting a number of challenges and opportunities. It is only through holistic approaches that meaningful progress will be made towards comprehensive migration management in the country, efforts towards which IOM remains committed” said Mio Sato, IOM Chief of Mission in Pakistan. 

“I would like to express my thanks to the Government of Japan for its steadfast support for IOM’s efforts in Pakistan, as well as the Ministry of Interior of Pakistan, with which we have enjoyed close cooperation for a number of years.”

“The Government of Japan is ready to support Pakistan in promoting peace and security through this project in partnership with IOM. We view a safe and secure environment as a fundamental requirement for anyone to enjoy prosperity and peace. 

Improving migration management and protection is key to achieving such outcomes, and we look forward to this collaborative effort with MoI and IOM.” said WADA Mitsuhiro, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan. 

“IOM is a critical partner to the Government of Pakistan within migration management efforts, and we appreciate the support provided at both the operational and policy levels, as well as the close coordination during both design and implementation of programming” said Ms. Sarah Benazir, Section Officer – Migration Management Cell, MoI. 

“The Ministry of Interior is committed to and looks forward to close cooperation with IOM during implementation.”

IOM has operated in Pakistan since 1981 and has worked closely with the Government to ensure humane and orderly movement of people by devising practical solutions to shifting migration dynamics; protecting, assisting and supporting vulnerable migrant population; promoting international cooperation on migration issues; and serving as a key source of advice on migration policy, research, data and practice.

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ISLAMABAD, FEB 02: Wada Mitsuhiro, Ambassador of Japan called on Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Shaukat Tarin at the Finance Division Wednesday.

Extending warm welcome to Wada Mitsuhiro, the Finance Minister stated that Pakistan and Japan have enjoyed cordial and friendly relations over the years and this relationship will continue to become even stronger with every passing day.

The Finance Minister appreciated the support extended by the Government of Japan for infrastructural and institutional development in Pakistan. He further said that Japan is a major development partner of Pakistan.

The Finance Minister also highlighted the initiatives taken by the Government for economic progress and social uplift of the masses.   Wada Mitsuhiro, Ambassador of Japan said that Japan greatly values its bilateral relations with Pakistan.

He highlighted operations of the Japanese entities in Pakistan and expressed confidence that business and economic linkages would further strengthen between the two countries.  Both reviewed the spectrum of business and investment relations and identified areas for further strengthening and expanding economic cooperation.

He congartulated the Finance Ministet on achieving important economic reforms. The Finance Minister thanked Mr. Wada Mitsuhiro for his sentiments and hoped the bilateral collaboration between the two countries would further grow during his tenure.

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ISLAMABAD: On January 12, 2022, one special gala performance organized and produced by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of  China and the Embassy of China in Pakistan was telecast through Subha Se Agay, one of the most followed morning shows of HUM news. 

Zhang Xu, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of China, delivered a passionate speech at the beginning of the performance.

Zhang Xu comprehensively reviewed the great achievements of practical bilateral cooperation in the fields of culture and tourism  fields since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Pakistan, and expressed his sincere expectations for further strengthening and deepening China-Pakistan cultural exchanges and cooperation, and  extended his sincere greetings to the people of Pakistan.

He stressed that China and Pakistan are good neighbors, good partners, good friends and good brothers. 

Since 1951, no matter how the international arena evolves, the bilateral friendship has always been  firm and unbreakable. 

Over the past 70 years, China-Pakistan cultural and tourism exchanges and cooperation have been very fruitful. Both countries signed 14 executive programmes on culture, tourism, literature, heritage, art, youth and education. Chinese performing arts troupes have made several visits to Pakistan for Happy New Year celebrations year by year, and  warmly welcomed in Pakistan. 

With strong support of Pakistan, China Cultural Center in Pakistan has become an important window for the Pakistani people to know more about Chinese culture and society.

It is pertinent to mention that the performance has been widely spread and highly praised, and the special program released online by HUM TV's official Facebook received over 60 thousand likes and over one million views in one single day. 

Zhang Heqing, Cultural Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan, the Cultural Office of the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan and the China Cultural Center in Pakistan also posted the performance simultaneous on Twitter and Facebook accounts.

The Gala Performance consisted of 7 classic works of art from China and Pakistan, covering Peking Opera, violin concert percussion, ballet, song, etc., perfectly highlighting the ironclad friendship between the two countries and bringing a successful end to the series of celebration activities for the year 2021. 

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ISLAMABAD, JAN 11: To kick start the 70th-anniversary celebrations of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Pakistan, the Embassy of Japan in Pakistan and the Japan Foundation in cooperation with the Pakistan National Council of the Arts(PNCA) are presenting a superb collection of Japanese dolls in an exhibition titled “NINGYO: Art and Beauty of Japanese Dolls” at the PNCA.  

This popular Japanese dolls travelling exhibition was inaugurated on Tuesday 11th January by WADA Mitsuhiro, the Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, together with the distinguished guests, Hon. Andleeb Abbas, member of the National Assembly of Pakistan and Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs, present on the occasion. 

The exhibition presents a comprehensive introduction to Japanese doll culture, from Katashiro and Amagatsu, which are considered to be the archetypes of dolls in Japan, to local dolls that reflect the climate and anecdotes from across the country, to dress-up dolls that are beloved in Japan today as doll toys, and scale figures that are highly regarded around the world.

In the exhibition, a total of 67 carefully selected dolls divided under four sections “Ningyo to pray for children’s growth,” “Ningyo as fine art,” “Ningyo as folk art,” and “Spread of Ningyo culture” have been displayed exhibiting the diversity of the Japanese dolls. 

Japanese dolls traditionally known as “Ningyo” (which means human shape in Japanese) are a unique cultural symbol because of their rich history and association with the Japanese way of life. 

They reflect the customs of Japan and the aspirations of its people, possess distinctive regional attributes, and over the centuries have developed in many diverse forms. 

Ambassador WADA, while speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the exhibition said that dolls have been an important part of the Japanese culture for centuries and they reflect the history of Japan from prehistoric to modern times. 

As this year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Pakistan, the dolls exhibition is a delightful occasion for Pakistani friends to learn more about the Japanese dolls culture. 

The purpose of showing this exhibition is to give the visitors a close glimpse of the versatility and individuality of the traditional and cultural life of Japanese people, said the Ambassador. 

The exhibition will remain open for public viewing till 25th of January 2022.

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