Two-day long cultural programme to commemorate 60th anniversary of Japan-Pakistan relations was ended here at Pakistan National Council of the Arts on Sunday. Embassy of Japan, Japan international Co-operation Agency (JICA), Alumni Association of Pakistan and Islamabad Japanese School jointly arranged the event.
JICA arranged a presentation of JICA's activities in Pakistan. JICA is among the largest development partner of Pakistan. The officials of National Highway Authority and Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences briefed the audience about some of the development projects of JICA in communication and health sectors. In collaboration with JICA, NHA has developed the national highway network for the facilitation of commuters. JICA also provide assistance in establishment of National Highway Research Centre. In addition, JICA has provided technical assistance for capacity building of NHA Staff through training & courses in Japan.
Former Executive Director PIMS informed the audience about some of the contribution of JICA in health sector especially grant aid for 'Islamabad children hospital'. JICA also built College of Nursing & Paramedical Institute, Mother & Child Health (MCH) Centre, in- country training programme on "safe management of new-born infants." Later, audience enjoyed a musical performance on Japanese traditional drums (Wadaiko) and dancing.
Around 12 school children between 9 to 15 years old performed a lively set of traditional dance and a drum beat ensemble.
In his welcome address, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, Hiroshi Oe said, "Musical performance is the culmination of their efforts to learn their own culture and their passion to share it with you." Professor Abbas, JICA Alumni also mentioned some of his experiences with Japanese experts in construction of Childern Hospital Islamabad and other projects. He found the people hard workers and friends of Pakistan. Pakistani traditional dances and songs were also splayed for entertainment of the guests. A collection of photographs were displayed at second day which depicted the JICA's activities in Pakistan.