Govt officials, diplomats celebrate birthday of Emperor of Japan

Emperor Akihito will be 84 years old on December 23

To celebrate the 84th birthday of His Majesty Emperor of Japan Akihito, which will take place on December 23 this year, a reception was hosted by Consul-General of Japan in Karachi Toshikazu Isomura on Monday.

The ceremony was attended by a large number of government officials, diplomats, business executives and parliamentarians from Sindh and Balochistan. Local Government Minister Jam Khan Shoro was the chief guest.

In his speech, the Japanese consul-general conveyed his wishes for the emperor and highlighted friendly ties between Pakistan and Japan. He shed light on Japan's assistance to Pakistan in social, cultural and economic fields. Isomura emphasised the need for people-to-people exchange between the countries and more improvement in the economic relations between them.



The reception was decorated in Japanese style with scenic photos of the country. The guests were served Japanese dishes including sushi and tempura. In addition, five Ikebana groups showcased beautiful flower arrangements and the Pakistan Bonsai Society exhibited Bonsai, the Japanese art of growing a miniature tree in a container, around the venue. The guests showed keen interest in the displays and appreciated their elegance and sophistication.

Addressing the ceremony, Shoro congratulated Emperor Akihito on his upcoming birthday and expressed wishes for his good health and prosperity. The provincial minister reiterated the cordial relations between Pakistan and Japan, and extended his deep appreciation for Japan's aid to Pakistan in various sectors. He also expressed his hope that Japan would cooperate with the Sindh government in future for the development of the province.