Japan donates 168 books to AIOU, launches Pakistan-Japan Advancement Center

The Embassy of Japan donated 168 English-language books to Allama Iqbal Open University under the “Read Japan Project,” while the Japan Pakistan Advancement Center (JPAC) was also inaugurated to promote academic, cultural and employment cooperation between the two countries

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th May, 2026) The Embassy of Japan donated 168 English-language books to Allama Iqbal Open University under the “Read Japan Project,” while the Japan Pakistan Advancement Center (JPAC) was also inaugurated to promote academic, cultural and employment cooperation between the two countries.

The books, donated by the The Nippon Foundation under its global “Read Japan Project” launched in 2008, were formally handed over by Akamatsu Shuichi to AIOU Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Nasir Mahmood during a ceremony held at the university here, said a press release.

The donated collection covers a wide range of subjects including Japan’s history, politics, economy, security, international relations, philosophy, literature, language and culture, aimed at promoting deeper understanding of Japan among Pakistani students and researchers.

On the occasion, the Japan Pakistan Advancement Center (JPAC) was also inaugurated to foster Japanese language learning, cultural and academic exchanges, while promoting employment opportunities and entrepreneurship for Pakistani youth.

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Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain also attended the event.

Ambassador Akamatsu congratulated the students and faculty members and said that books serve as bridges of knowledge that help people explore Japan’s rich culture and perspectives while inspiring innovation and new ideas in Pakistan.

He termed JPAC an important initiative for strengthening Pakistan-Japan relations in the fields of education, employment and entrepreneurship.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof Dr Nasir Mahmood thanked the Nippon Foundation and the Embassy of Japan for the donation, saying the books would help students gain a better understanding of Japan and further enhance bilateral relations between the two countries.

He expressed commitment to nurturing talented students and strengthening ties with Japan through the newly established JPAC.

Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik Hussain appreciated the JPAC initiative and expressed hope that it would further promote friendship, cooperation and people-to-people exchanges between Pakistan and Japan.