Former Japanese Prime Minister Ryutaro Hashimoto, who is also known as a good friend of Nepal passed away at the age of 68 on Saturday afternoon.Former Japanese Prime Minister Ryutaro Hashimoto (Photo source : kantei.go.jp)
Hashimoto, who had initiated various development projects in Nepal, was suffering from multiple organ failure and was undergoing treatment at International Medical Centre in Tokyo.

He was admitted to Tokyo Hospital on June 4 and was in a critical condition ever since.

Hashimoto, who was heading the Golden Jubilee celebration committee of Nepal and Japan diplomatic ties, was scheduled to visit Nepal in September.

He poured massive funds to Nepal on his personal initiative to improve pediatric services and to provide scholarships to the needy students.

After serving for over two years as Japan’s prime minister from 1996, Hashimoto stepped down following defeat of his Liberal Democratic Party in July 1998 elections to the Japanese Upper House.

He retired from politics last year due to failing health.