ISLAMABAD: In recognition of Prof Mr Takamitsu Matsumura’s outstanding services to the Urdu language in Japan, the Charge d’ Affaires of Pakistan’s embassy in Tokyo Ms. Ismat Hassan Sial, on behalf of President of Pakistan, conferred the award “Sitara-i-Pakistan” on him.

The award conferment ceremony held at the Embassy of Pakistan was attended by government officials, academia, think-tanks, businessmen and members of Pakistani Community, says a press release received here on Tuesday from Tokyo.

Mr Matsumura was awarded with Sitara-i-Pakistan in recognition of his efforts to promote Urdu language in Japan for more than three decades. In his remarks, Mr Matsumura expressed his deep gratitude to the President of Pakistan for awarding him with the award.

The Charge d’ Affaires in her remarks highlighted the important contributions made in promotion of Urdu language in Japan by Prof Matsumura. The ceremony was followed by a working lunch.