KARACHI: Consul General of Japan in Karachi Toshikazu Isomura said that his country is set and ready to host the Tokyo Olympics in July, adding that that the biggest multi-sports event would be held in a memorable way.

“People of Japan are waiting for it,” he said, regarding the Games which were postponed from last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic. “Athletes are the community who can individually and collectively impact solidarity in world.”

He shared these views at a ceremony by Softball Federation of Pakistan on the occasion of International Olympic Day celebrated on June 23 at the Japanese Consulate in Karachi.

Deputy Commissioner South Irshad Ali Sodhar, Pakistan Olympic Association focal person for Olympic Day focal person Tehmina Asif, Pak-Japan Cultural Association president Sadia Rasheed, secretary Azmat Ataka, SFP general secretary Asif Azeem, Mohammad Ovais, Sindh Softball Association president Syed Waseem Hashmi, secretary Zeeshan Merchant, Murad Hussain, Faraz Ejaz, and other sports associations’ members were also present.

Isomura added that SFP celebrating the Olympic Day is a great sign and will play an important role to build strong bond of friendship between Pakistan and Japan.

“The game of Softball is becoming the favourite sport of youth players in Pakistan and I hope that young stars will represent and brighten the name of Pakistan,” he said. “We will support by all means to promote this game up to modern style.”

Irshad congratulated Japanese people for organising the Olympics. He also said that athletes will showcase respect, friendship, and sportsmanship towards each other.

Asif Azeem thanked the Japan Consulate Karachi for “always welcoming us for such ceremonies and softball events”.

The dignitaries cut the Olympic rings theme cake while gift hampers were distributed among the guests from Dr. Essa Laboratories.

Published in Dawn, June 26th, 2021