The Japanese government conferred ‘The Order of the Rising Sun, Silver Rays’, upon Vice President of the Pakistan-Japan Cultural Association (PJCA) Orita Toshiko in recognition of her significant contribution to promoting long-term cultural exchanges and friendly relations between Japan and Pakistan.

Ambassador of Japan Matsuda Kuninori presented the 2020 Spring Decoration at a ceremony at his official residence. Finance Minister Dr Abdul Hafeez Shaikh was also present at the event.

Ambassador Matsuda appreciated Ms Orita’s years of service, saying, “I believe that cultural exchanges, in particular, contribute significantly to deepen mutual trust and understanding among the people which should be the very foundation of any relationship between the countries.”

Federal Minister Shaikh stated that Ms Orita was an excellent ambassador of Japanese culture in Pakistan and the award was not only an honour for her but also for Pakistan.

Ms Orita said: “I feel great honour today for receiving ‘The Order of the Rising Sun, Silver Rays’ from His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. My journey in Pakistan started almost 60 years ago and it has always been my dream to bring the peoples of Japan and Pakistan closer through deepened cultural relations.”

Published in Dawn, December 28th, 2020