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Lahore, Lahore became the focal point of cultural exchange and appreciation as the Embassy of Japan in Pakistan, in collaboration with the Pakistan-Japan Cultural Association (PJCA) Lahore and Lahore Sogetsu Study Group, unveiled exhibitions celebrating Wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets) and ikebana (the art of flower arrangement). These events, aimed at highlighting Japan’s rich cultural diversity and aesthetic beauty, brought centuries-old Japanese traditions closer to Pakistani audiences.
According to Embassy of Japan in Pakistan, the Wagashi exhibition, titled “WagashiArt of the 5 Senses,” offered attendees a unique sensory experience with beautifully crafted sweets that appeal to sight, taste, smell, touch, and even the sound of their names. These edible works of art, reflecting the natural world and the changing seasons, are traditionally served during the Japanese tea ceremony, showcasing their integral role in Japanese culture.
Mr. ITO Takeshi, Charge d’ Affaires of the Embassy of Japan in Pakistan, inaugurated the exhibitions, underlining the essence of Japanese traditions and culture. Mr. YAMAZAKI Tetsuya, the Embassy’s Chef, demonstrated the intricate art of Wagashi preparation, using traditional ingredients and techniques to craft aesthetically pleasing and delicious sweets. His presentation, emphasizing the cultural significance of these confectioneries in Japanese celebrations and rituals, received accolades from the attendees.
The ikebana exhibition presented by the Lahore Sogetsu Study Group, titled “Mughal Architecture through the eyes of Sogetsu Ikebana,” drew inspiration from Lahore’s rich architectural heritage. The floral arrangements, influenced by the floral frescoes of historical monuments such as Lahore Fort, Sheesh Mahal, and Badshahi Masjid, showcased the unique fusion of Mughal artistry and Sogetsu Ikebana.
Ms. Neveen Syed, Director of the Sogetsu Study Group, provided a live ikebana demonstration inspired by her explorations of Lahore’s historical sites. She highlighted the exhibition’s novelty in Lahore, where the meditative art of Sogetsu Ikebana was used to express peace, harmony, and friendship through flowers, linking history with floral art.
Mr. Ito, in his remarks, expressed admiration for the aesthetically curated wagashi and ikebana exhibitions, hoping that such cultural showcases would enhance the understanding and appreciation of Japanese culture among Pakistanis and strengthen the friendship between the two nations. He praised the efforts of Mr. Yamazaki Tetsuya, the Lahore Sogetsu Study Group, Mr. Aamir Shirazi, Honorary Consul General of Japan at Lahore, and Dr. Ghazal Irfan, President of PJCA Lahore, for their dedication to promoting Japanese culture in Lahore.
Islamabad, In a significant move to enhance the living conditions of Parliament Lodges, Deputy Speaker National Assembly Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah has called for improvements to match international standards in security and cleanliness. During his inspection tour of the facility, he emphasized the need for the lodges, which accommodate the nation’s legislators, to serve as exemplary models for other government buildings in terms of their maintenance and safety measures.
According to National Assembly of Pakistan, the Deputy Speaker scrutinized various aspects of the Parliament Lodges, including the security walls, walking track, and the condition of servant quarters and MNEs hostel. His directives to the Capital Development Authority (CDA) included the urgent renovation of deteriorating lodges and the enhancement of security protocols to ensure a foolproof environment around the premises.
Moreover, Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah stressed the importance of upgrading and renovating the servants’ quarters within the lodges, highlighting the government’s commitment to improving the welfare and living standards of its employees.
The meeting between the Deputy Speaker and CDA Chairman Captain Retired Anwarul Haq at the Parliament House in Islamabad led to a briefing on the ongoing construction of 104 family suites and servant quarters. The discussion also involved Additional Secretary (Special Measures) and senior officers from the CDA, who provided insights into the development and refurbishment plans aimed at elevating the lodges to a higher standard of living.
This initiative underscores the government’s focus on ensuring dignified and secure accommodations for its representatives, reflecting a broader effort to uplift the quality of government facilities across Pakistan.
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