Japan Embassy Marks 71st Japan Self-Defense Forces Day in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD; The Embassy of Japan in Pakistan celebrated the 71st anniversary of Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) Day with a reception hosted by Ambassador H.E. Akamatsu Shuichi. The event was attended by Federal Minister for Defense Khawaja Muhammad Asif as the chief guest, along with senior officials, diplomats, and military representatives.

Defense Attaché Colonel ABE Kazuo represented the JSDF at the ceremony, which featured the national anthems of both countries and the traditional cake-cutting ceremony symbolizing the friendship between Japan and Pakistan.

In his address, Ambassador Akamatsu extended heartfelt condolences over the loss of lives and devastation caused by recent floods in Pakistan. He reaffirmed Japan’s support for Pakistan’s disaster prevention and recovery efforts, citing Japan’s own extensive experience in managing natural calamities.

Highlighting defense cooperation between the two countries, the ambassador recalled Japan’s airlift assistance during Pakistan’s 2010 floods and joint relief operations with the Pakistan Army after the Turkiye earthquake. He also noted Japan’s participation in Pakistan Navy’s multinational exercise AMAN25 earlier this year through the deployment of the Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer MURASAME.

Ambassador Akamatsu mentioned that officers from Pakistan’s National Defense University visited Japan in May, while Military-to-Military Consultations between both sides are scheduled for December to further enhance defense collaboration.

Reflecting on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, the ambassador emphasized Japan’s unwavering commitment to nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, advocating for a world free of nuclear weapons. He expressed hope that this vision could be advanced in partnership with Pakistan.

He also praised Pakistan’s successful participation in the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025, where the Pakistan Pavilion, themed “A Universe in a Grain of Salt,” attracted over 1.5 million visitors.

Concluding his remarks, Ambassador Akamatsu expressed optimism that under the leadership of Japan’s newly elected first female Prime Minister, H.E. Ms. Takaichi Sanae, bilateral ties between Japan and Pakistan would continue to strengthen through mutual respect and cooperation.

JSDF Day commemorates the founding of the Japan Defense Agency and Self-Defense Forces on July 1, 1954, now observed on November 1 to honor JSDF’s role in disaster response.