- Embassy of Japan Donates 168 Books to AIOU Under “Read Japan Project”
ISLAMABAD: Reinforcing its commitment to promoting educational and cultural ties with Pakistan, the Embassy of Japan in Islamabad donated 168 English-language books to Allama Iqbal Open University under the “Read Japan Project,” an initiative launched by the The Nippon Foundation in 2008 to enhance global understanding of Japan through literature.
The books, covering a wide range of subjects including Japan’s history, politics, economy, security, international relations, philosophy, literature, language and culture, were formally handed over during a ceremony held on May 12.
Ambassador Akamatsu Highlights Power of Knowledge and Cultural Exchange
During the ceremony, Akamatsu Shuichi presented the collection to Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood, Vice-Chancellor of Allama Iqbal Open University.
Japan’s history, politics, economy, security, international relations, philosophy, literature, language,
culture and more to Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood, AIOU Vice-Chancellor during a hand over ceremony
held on May 12
Addressing students and faculty members, Ambassador Akamatsu emphasized the importance of books in fostering mutual understanding and innovation.
“Books are bridges of knowledge that allow you to explore the rich tapestry of Japan, understand our perspectives, and inspire new ideas and innovations here in Pakistan,” he said.
The ambassador also praised the establishment of the Japan Pakistan Advancement Center (JPAC), describing it as a significant step toward deepening bilateral cooperation in education, employment and entrepreneurship.
Japan Pakistan Advancement Center Inaugurated
On the same occasion, the Japan Pakistan Advancement Center (JPAC) was officially inaugurated to promote Japanese language education, cultural and academic exchanges, as well as employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for Pakistani students and professionals.
Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain attended the event as chief guest and welcomed the initiative aimed at strengthening people-to-people connections between the two countries.
AIOU Appreciates Japan’s Continued Support
In his remarks, Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood expressed gratitude to the Nippon Foundation and the Embassy of Japan for their continued support of academic and cultural cooperation.
He noted that the donated books would provide valuable insight into Japanese society and contribute to enhancing bilateral relations between Pakistan and Japan. He also reaffirmed AIOU’s commitment to nurturing talented students and expanding collaboration with Japan through JPAC.
Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain also appreciated JPAC’s initiatives and expressed confidence that the center would further strengthen friendship, educational cooperation and mutual understanding between Pakistan and Japan.
BY: The Times Union
