President Zardari Attends Japan National Day Celebration
By Nadeem Faisal Baiga
ISLAMABAD: The Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, H.E. Shuichi Akamatsu, hosted a prestigious reception at Serena Hotel to commemorate the 66th birthday of His Majesty Emperor Naruhito and the eighth year of his enthronement. President Asif Ali Zardari attended the ceremony as Chief Guest, alongside senior government officials, diplomats and distinguished guests.
In his address, Ambassador Akamatsu underscored the strength of Japan-Pakistan relations and reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to multilateralism, rule of law, and a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. He noted Japan’s evolving political landscape under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and expressed willingness to work closely with Pakistan, particularly in light of its role as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council.
Highlighting recent milestones, the Ambassador praised the Pakistan Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka-Kansai for winning a Bronze Prize and Editors’ Choice Award, terming it a significant step in promoting Pakistan’s image in Japan. He outlined three priority areas for future cooperation: enhanced people-to-people exchanges including sports ties, revival of yen loan projects and IT collaboration, and promotion of cultural diplomacy through Japanese cuisine.
Ambassador Akamatsu also conveyed heartfelt condolences over the recent mosque attack in Islamabad, condemning terrorism in all forms and expressing solidarity with the people of Pakistan.
The reception featured exhibitions of Ikebana and Bonsai, along with displays by JICA and major Japanese companies including Toyota, Suzuki, Honda and Sojitz. Guests were served traditional Japanese cuisine, with wagyu beef as the culinary highlight.
The Ambassador concluded by expressing optimism for a new era of deeper cooperation and expanded engagement between Japan and Pakistan.
