Islamabad:Under the Read Japan Project, launched by the Nippon Foundation in 2008 to promote global understanding of Japan through literature, the Embassy of Japan on Tuesday handed over 168 English-language books to the Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) in Islamabad.
Ambassador of Japan Akamatsu Shuichi presented the diverse collection of books on Japan's history, politics, economy, security, international relations, philosophy, literature, language and culture to AIOU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood during special ceremony.
The same day, the Japan Pakistan Advancement Center (JPAC) was inaugurated, aimed at fostering Japanese language, cultural, academic exchanges, promoting employment and entrepreneurship.
Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain attended the event. Ambassador Akamatsu congratulated students and faculty, saying books are bridges of knowledge that allow you to explore the rich tapestry of Japan, understand our perspectives and even inspire new ideas and innovations here in Pakistan.
He praised JPAC as a key step to strengthen Japan-Pakistan ties in terms of education,employment and entrepreneurship. VC Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood thanked the Nippon Foundation and the Embassy of Japan for the donation, saying it will help students learn about Japan and enhance bilateral relations.
He promised efforts to cultivate outstanding students and strengthen relations with Japan through JPAC. The minister also appreciated JPAC's initiatives and hoped that they would further promote friendship and cooperation between Pakistan and Japan.
