HOPE TEAM ATTENDED BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS OF JAPANESE EMPEROR

HOPE – an NGO in Pakistan has always been striving since its establishment for the betterment of society. From education and health to research projects, HOPE is always up to something that can contribute in the wellbeing of society. However, there are many entities that have been helping HOPE with its mission. One of them is Government of Japan which had funded HOPE to establish formal schools in Karachi, Thatta, Muzaffargarh and Muzaffarabad. HOPE’s Chairperson Dr. Mubina Agboatwalla-A Child Specialist in Karachi is pleased to be working with the Embassy of Japan which never fails in providing a helping hand in the eradication of illiteracy.

The Japanese embassy and HOPE have a very robust and everlasting bond. Recently the Consul-General of Japan in Karachi, Toshikazu Isomura invited HOPE team to attend a grand reception at Pearl Continental Karachi to celebrate the 85th birthday of His Majesty Emperor Akihito. Around 500 guests, including renowned parliamentarians, government officials, prominent diplomats, academics, business and corporate executives, as well as media personnel attended the occasion. The Consul-General of Japan in Karachi Isomura, wished His Majesty the Emperor and the imperial family continued health and happiness. He also shared with the guests that His Majesty Akihito, who has ruled over Japan since Jan 1989, is set to abdicate his throne on April 30, 2019, after ruling for over 30 years. He thanked Pakistan for strong bilateral ties that bind the two Asian countries together on cultural and economic activities, and invited the guests to visit Mr. Isomura’s home town, Osaka, which won the rights to host 2025 World Expo recently. The honorable gathering present at the occasion praised the Japanese government’s support in all related sectors of developmental growth within Pakistan through strong assistance and grant schemes. 

The Consul-General of Japan in Karachi also made a small but heartwarming speech in Urdu. He and his wife known for their hospitality kept formalities to the minimum, cake cutting and playing of national anthems of Japan and Pakistan, a lovely cuisine, including both Pakistani and Japanese dishes, turned out to be a matter of extra delight for guests. The event incorporated many traditions and Japanese elements, including ikebana and bonsai displays.

HOPE-An Educational NGO in Pakistan, diligently tries to provide education to all, especially the underprivileged masses. Thus most of HOPE’s programs are focused primarily on the rural and urban slum areas of Pakistan. HOPE looks forward to continue its efforts with more passion in the future. Help and support from the Government of Japan will always be commendable in the implementation of these plans.