ISLAMABAD, Aug 7 (INP): Two Pakistanis were awarded by the Japanese Foreign Ministry for their outstanding contribution to promotion of the two countries’ friendly relations, particularly in the socio-economic sector. The award-giving ceremony was held here last night at the residence of Japanese ambassador Takashi Kurai.  Besides the two Pakistanis Zafar Mahmood and Mahmood A. Jilani, the award was also bestowed upon a Japanese Ms. Toshiko Orita. [timed-content-server show="08/08/2018 01:00 Asia/Karachi"]The Japanese ambassador while commending their selfless efforts giving boost to the Pak-Japan decades’ old socio-economic partnership said his country enjoyed complete support of Pakistani nation in fulfilling his ambassadorial task. He said the friendship between Japan and Pakistan is based on mutual trust, cooperation and understanding that met the aspirations of their people. He presented the commendation certificates to the three individuals on behalf of the Foreign Ministry in their presence of their friends and colleagues. The recipients of of the certificates are Zafar Mahmmod is a visiting professor, Japanese Language Department, National University of Modern Languages, Mahmood A. Jilani, ex-Deputy Resident Representative, JICA, Pakistan Office and Ms. Toshiko Orita is vice President, Pakistan Japan Cultural Association, Islamabad INP/AJ[/timed-content-server]