Participants of a programme organised to mark the Golden Jubilee of Nepal-Japan diplomatic ties in the capital on Tuesday have lauded the role of Japanese assistance to Nepal.
Japanese Ambassador to Nepal Tsutomo Hiraoka (File photo)
Japanese Ambassador to Nepal Tsutomo Hiraoka (File photo)
They said that Japan had greatly assisted Nepal in various sectors without any self-interest. Japan was involved in Kali Gandaki Hydropower Project, Bagmati Bridge and Banepa-Sinduli-Badribas road, all large-scale projects in Nepal after 1990.
Speaking at the program, Japanese Ambassador to Nepal Tsutomo Hiraoka, said that Nepal-Japan relation is not only confined to intergovernmental exchanges, it is also characterised by an essential cordial relationship between peoples of both the countries, adding, “We will together accomplish great success.”
Minister without portfolio Buddhiraj Bajracharya said that Japan was Nepal’s true friend as it had stood beside Nepal in need.
Referring to assistance of other countries like India, the US and UK, Minister Bajracharya said, “Now, when other countries have stopped giving their support to Nepal, Japan has continued her aid.”
“It is indeed great pride to celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relationship between Nepal and Japan,” said Bishnu Gopal Shrestha, chief of Co-coordinating Council for Golden Jubilee Celebration, adding, “All Nepalese appreciate the assistance forwarded by the Japanese.”
Similarly, ex-minister and former ambassador of Nepal to Japan, Badri Prasad Shrestha, said, “The bilateral relationship between two countries is possible only if it is based on each others’ history, way of life and culture.”
He also said that diplomacy should be a two-way traffic, receiving and giving. “But unfortunately Nepal’s relation with Japan is still based on taking. We should not eye Japan only for assistance but also take lessons from the virtuous Japanese,” he added.