Minister of Information and Culture Meets with the Japanese Ambassador
On Tuesday, February 25, 2025 (26 Sha'ban 1446 Hijri), Afghanistan’s Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaj Mullah Khairullah Khairkhwa, met with Japanese Ambassador Takayoshi Kuromaya in his office. The meeting was also attended by Mawlawi Atiqullah Azizi, Deputy Minister for Arts and Culture.
At the beginning of the discussion, Ambassador Kuromaya provided an update on Japan’s ongoing projects in Afghanistan. He elaborated on Japan’s recent $6 million humanitarian aid package, which was signed two days earlier with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to support internally displaced persons (IDPs) and returning refugees. He emphasized that these funds are allocated for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of affected areas.
Ambassador Kuromaya also briefed Minister Khairkhwa on the recent visit of a six-member Afghan delegation to Japan, which included the Director of the National Museum of Afghanistan. The delegation traveled to Japan at the official invitation of the Sasakawa Foundation, where they visited the Institute for Cultural Heritage Research and the Tokyo Cultural Heritage Agency. The ambassador expressed confidence that this visit would pave the way for further collaboration in preserving Afghanistan’s rich cultural heritage.
Minister Alhaj Mullah Khairullah Khairkhwa warmly welcomed the ambassador and reaffirmed the longstanding positive relations between Afghanistan and Japan, emphasizing that these ties are built on mutual trust and sincerity. He viewed the recent cultural exchange as a meaningful step in strengthening bilateral relations. The minister also underscored the importance of Japan’s support in the preservation and restoration of Afghanistan’s historical sites, recognizing Japan’s extensive experience and commitment to cultural conservation.
Deputy Minister Azizi also addressed the gathering, highlighting the necessity of educational programs and seminars on cultural heritage. He emphasized their role in raising public awareness and fostering a deeper appreciation for Afghanistan’s historical sites. He specifically mentioned the National Museum, Bala Hissar, and the Minaret of Jam, stressing the urgent need for Japan’s assistance in their restoration and long-term preservation.
In conclusion, both sides reiterated their commitment to strengthening and expanding cultural cooperation between Afghanistan and Japan, recognizing the vital role of cultural heritage in fostering mutual understanding and collaboration.
26/08/1446,
06/12/1403,
26/02/2025
