Consulate of Japan in Karachi hosted a grand reception at a local hotel to celebrate the 79th birthday of Japanese Emperor Akihito. Sindh Minister for Relief and Rehabilitation, Muzaffar Ali Shajra embraced the occasion as the chief guest. Sindh Assembly Speaker Nisar Ahmed Khuro, State Bank of Pakistan Governor Yaseen Anwar, provincial ministers, diplomats, businessmen, parliamentarians and government officials were in attendance. The Consul General speaking on the occasion remarked that 2012 had been memorable year for Japan and Pakistan, as it marked the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relationship between the two countries. He said that “Pakistan is a country possessing mammoth potential for economic growth and Karachi is the key area for such economic growth. We have carried out a series of commemorative events to further strengthen the friendly relationship between the two countries on both economic and diplomatic levels”. The Consul general said that Japan assisted Pakistan in the aftermath of 2005 earthquake and in the aftermath of 2010 and 2011 floods. “This year Japan decided to provide emergency relief goods such as tents and blankets, worth 35 million yen, and food, shelters and water e worth 4.7 million US dollars through UN organizations” he added.
The Consul General praised Pakistan for being of assistance to Japan in the aftermath of Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami in March. The Pakistani assistance was utilized by the inhabitants of the Tohoku region. The Japanese representative in Karachi said, “I would like to express our sincere gratitude for the generous support from the Pakistani people. A friend in need is a friend indeed. This proves the cordial and friendly relationship existing between Japan and Pakistan. As you may have noticed, some Japanese companies in Karachi display their products such as cars and bikes at the entrance. I wish you all appreciate the displays of Japanese vehicles and also visit each booth to get to know more about Japan. I have visited the factories of the Japanese companies since my arrival and have recognized how much they are contributing to the economic development of Pakistan.”
Concluding his speech, the Japanese consul general resolved to diversify the economic relations and cultural exchange programmers between the two countries. “I, as the Consul-General of Japan in Karachi, will make every effort to achieve that goal” he concluded.
In his speech, Sindh Minister Muzaffar Ali Shajra congratulated the Japanese king on his birthday and prayed for his g health and prosperity.
