ISLAMABAD: Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan Wada Mitsuhiro on Wednesday conferred the ‘Japanese Ambassador’s Commendations’ to Shirai Mariko, Lahore Sogetsu Study Group and Lahore Bonsai Society at a ceremony held at his official residence.

These commendations are awarded to individuals or organisations for their significant contributions or exceptional services in cooperation with the Japanese embassy.

Former general manager of the Cox & Kings Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd Shirai Mariko was recognised for her longstanding role as the point of contact for Japanese travellers in Pakistan.

Ambassador Wada, speaking on the occasion, praised her active contributions to the Japanese community in Islamabad and thanked her for building bridges between the two cultures and supporting the important work of the embassy.

The Lahore Sogetsu Study Group, a cultural organisation dedicated to the Japanese art of Ikebana (flower arranging), was recognised for its voluntary contributions.

Ambassador Wada appreciate their display of Ikebana art at the Japan’s Emperor’s Birthday and Self-Defense Forces Day receptions, and admired their passion towards the Japanese culture.

Similarly, the Lahore Bonsai Society was honoured for its dedication to the Japanese-style potted trees. Ambassador Wada shared his experience and fondness for the art of Bonsai, and hoped for continued collaborations with them while thanking their voluntary contributions of Bonsai displays to various Japanese receptions.

Shirai Mariko, Neveen Syed, President Lahore Sogetsu Study Group, and Mian Umair, President Lahore Bonsai Society, were presented the certificates of commendations as well as memorial trophies.

Naveen Syed recounted how her group began with a few ladies with a passion for Ikebana holding demonstrations, workshops and regular classes.

“We are so passionate that wherever we go, we encourage goodwill between Pakistan and Japan,” she said.

Mian Umair appreciated the embassy for recognising his society’s contributions to promotion of Bonsai art.

Shirai Mariko, who had been in Pakistan since 2000, said, “Despite infavourable travel advisory, which seriously damaged tourism in Pakistan, we were able to open doors for new opportunities such as studying, business and research projects etc.” She thanked all her friends and patrons for support in bringing Japanese tourists to Pakistan.

Published in Dawn, September 19th, 2024