'Pakistan, Japan have centuries-old links'

Pakistan is a cradle of civilisations and has centuries-old links with Japan through Buddhism and that has continued to strengthen and flourish over the years, Pakistan's Ambassador to Japan, Noor Muhammad Jadmani said. He was speaking to over 100 members of NHK culture centres of Aoyama, Kashiwa, Utsunomia and Tochigi prefectures about the rich historical past of Pakistan in Tokyo.
The ambassador said the land that now comprises present day Pakistan was the centre of Buddhism from where it spread to South East Asian countries including Japan. He said though Pakistan-Japan diplomatic relations were established in 1952, but culturally, people of the two countries have centuries old strong bonds of friendship and understanding. He invited the NHK culture centres members to visit Pakistan to see for themselves the historical places and artefacts here.
Deputy Chief of Mission, Imtiaz Ahmad gave a detailed briefing on the culture of Pakistan, besides Gandhara and Indus valley civilisation. He spoke on Pakistani, traditional and wedding ceremonies, besides food and famous cuisine. The audience, were shown documentaries also.
Chairman Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) Tariq Puri, who is currently visiting Japan, also addressed the audience. He expressed his gratitude to the government of Japan, which made it possible to export Pakistani mangoes to Japanese market. The audience was also the first Japanese to taste the Pakistani mangoes. "I am sure Japanese people will enjoy aroma and sweetness of Pakistani mangoes," he said.
Referring to the recent unprecedented earthquake and tsunami, Tariq Puri said that Japanese nation proved that it can face any hardship and overcome difficulties through strong determination and concerted efforts. He offered heartfelt condolences to those who lost their lives in the earthquake and tsunami in the worst affected area. Later, the members of NHK centres were served with Pakistani mango juice and 'lassi' and traditional Pakistani food.