Pakistan-Japan Cultural Association (PJCA) participated in the reception hosted by H.E. Mr. AKAMATSU Shuichi, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, to commemorate the 66th Birthday of His Majesty Emperor Naruhito, held at Serena Hotel, Islamabad, on 10 February. The ceremony was graced by the President of Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Asif Ali Zardari, alongside senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and distinguished guests.

In his address, Ambassador AKAMATSU expressed appreciation for celebrating this auspicious occasion in Islamabad and underscored Japan’s continued commitment to the rule of law, multilateralism, and a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. He highlighted Pakistan’s important role as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and reaffirmed Japan’s desire to work closely with Pakistan in addressing regional and global challenges.

The Ambassador also noted positive developments in bilateral relations, including the success of Pakistan’s Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka-Kansai, which received international recognition and strengthened people-to-people understanding. He emphasized future cooperation in three priority areas: expanding cultural and educational exchanges, strengthening economic and technical collaboration—particularly in development assistance and Pakistan’s IT sector—and promoting Japanese cuisine and cultural heritage.

The reception featured exhibitions of Japanese traditional arts including Ikebana and Bonsai, as well as displays by JICA and leading Japanese companies operating in Pakistan.

The President of PJCA attended the reception and engaged with the Ambassador, reaffirming the Association’s commitment to further strengthening Pakistan-Japan cultural relations. Mr. Jamal Shah President, PJCA and Madam Amna Shah, attended the reception and interacted with the Ambassador, reaffirming PJCA’s commitment to enhancing cultural ties. PJCA Member Ms. Hifsa Ashraf presented her recently published Haiku poetry book “Beyond Emptiness” to H.E. Ambassador AKAMATSU, symbolizing the vibrant literary and cultural exchange between the two countries.