Japanese envoy promises continued support for development

Islamabad: Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan Akamatsu Shuichi on Wednesday said the Japanese government would continue supporting the people of Pakistan for improve their living standards.

"I'm sure our development projects will strengthen our relations with Pakistan and its people," the envoy told a project inauguration ceremony. Under the project, solar powered irrigation system was installed in Shakargarh district with the collaboration of NGO Rural Aid Pakistan, which works at grassroots level in rural areas to fight against poverty and empowering the vulnerable rural communities for sustainable development.

The ambassador said the government of Japan, under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects Programme, had provided financial assistance of $65,617 under the project for provision of seven solar powered irrigation pumps and facilities to enhance agricultural productivity in the region by providing sustainable and efficient irrigation system in District Narowal.

The Rural Aid Pakistan has been working for more than 30 years with farmers in rural areas, implementing many projects in collaboration with government departments and different donors. The grant of $65,617 provided by the government of Japan is utilised to improve the environment for agricultural activities, increase the production and harvest of agricultural products in the area, and increase the income of local farmers.

The Japanese envoy congratulated the representatives of NGO for successful completion of this important project. He expressed the hope that the initiative would empower farmers and ensure to increase their agricultural productivity, improve their livelihoods, and contribute to the local economy.