2017.30.08 Meeting with Members of JICA’s South Asia Department Staff.

Meeting with Members of JICA’s South Asia Department Staff.

August 30, 2017: It was a pleasure for H.E. Ambassador Dr. Bashir Mohabbat to receive Hon. Mr. Masaya Fujimoto, Deputy Director General; Mr. Naoyuki Nemoto, Director; Mr. Daisuke Fukumori, Senior Deputy Director; Mr. Takeshi Watanabe, Chief Representative of JICA’s South Asia Department Kabul Office, at the embassy in a meeting. Also in attendance was Mr. Ahmad Ghafoori, First Secretary and Consul for the Embassy of Afghanistan in Japan.

The members in attendance were here to arrange plans for an upcoming meeting between H.E. Ambassador Dr. Mohabbat with H.E. the President of Jica, as well as carrying with them his message of congratulations on his new position. With very warm sincerity they expressed their own congratulations and wishes for developing even greater relations. IN return H.E. Dr. Mohabbat thanked them for their attendance, the message they carried with them, as well as for their kind words. Since 2002, JICA has helped the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in stabilizing the self-support effort for the people of Afghanistan. Furthermore, JICA believes that the human capacity building is an essential block to help improve Afghanistan.

H.E. Dr. Mohabbat sincerely appreciated and thanked JICA for their continuous support in the development of Afghanistan in many facets. In return the officials reassured H.E. Dr. Mohabbat that their support would be continued well into the future and that they appreciate the sincerity of the officials of the Embassy of Afghanistan, and wish for the bright prospects of Afghanistan.

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2017.30.08 Attendance at the Victory Day Reception at Embassy of Turkey.

Attendance at the Victory Day Reception at Embassy of Turkey.

August 30, 2017:　His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Bashir Mohabbat had the honor and pleasure of attending the reception celebrating the Turkish Victory Day at the Embassy of Turkey in Shibuya-ku, Tokyo.

H.E. Ambassador Dr. Mohabbat expressed his congratulations for this most auspicious occasion, on behalf of the people and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, to H.E. Mr. Ahmet Bülent Meriç, Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Japan and Military Attache Captain (N) Isa Murat Akarsu. In return, H.E. Mr. Meriç thanked H.E. Dr. Mohabbat for his kind words and attendance as well congratulated him on his recent appointment as the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Japan, hoping to make more profound the very strong ties between their two countries. In response, H.E. DR. Mohabbat thanked H.E. Mr. Meriç for his kind words and commented on the historically close and brotherly relationship between the two great nations, assuring him that he would also work to deepen and strengthen their close relations.

Additionally, H.E. Dr. Mohabbat had the opportunity to meet and converse with Mr. Katsuhiko Takahashi, Deputy Director-General, Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau about several topics of mutual interest including Japan’s support of the Chabahar Port project, and the recent speeches by leaders of allied nations planning for active steps to achieving further peace and security in Afghanistan. He also had the pleasure of meeting with several of Their Excellencies Ambassadors and members of diplomatic missions stationed in Tokyo, high ranking members of Parliament, and notable members of Japan’s business sector with whom he discussed many topics of mutual interest.

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2017. 29. 08 Condolence Book Signing at Embassy of the Marshall Islands

Condolence Book Signing at Embassy of the Marshall Islands

August 29, 2017: Mr. Ahmad Bashir Ghafoori, First Secretary and Consul, visited the Embassy of the Marshall Islands in Tokyo for the condolence book signing in memory of Hon. Mattlan Zackhras, Minister-in-Assistance to H.E. the President of the Republic of the Marshall Island, and H.E. Tony A. deBrum, Climate Ambassador and former Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Marshall Islands. On behalf of the Government and Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Mr. Ghafoori expressed his deepest condolences for the untimely loss of Hon, Mattlan Zackhras and H.E. Tony A deBrum. Mr. Ghafoori also commented on their many great achievements and the legacy they leave behind. Furthermore, Mr. Ghafoori offered his prayers to their respective families, and for the people and Government of the Republic of the Marshall Islands during this time of great sadness.

H.E. Mr. Tom D. Kijiner, Ambassador of the Republic of the Marshall Islands in Japan, extended his sincerest thanks to Mr. Ghafoori for his kind words and for taking the time to come and pay his respects at the condolence book signing

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2017.29.08 Courtesy Call to the Hon. Mr. Natsuo Yamaguchi.

Courtesy Call to the Hon. Mr. Natsuo Yamaguchi.

August 29, 2017:　His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Bashir Mohabbat had the honor and pleasure of making a courtesy call on the Honorable Mr. Natsuo Yamaguchi, Chief Representative of the Komei Party, at his office in the House of Councillors Members’ Building. Mr. Basir A. Hamdard, First Secretary for the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Japan, was also present at the meeting.

Hon. Mr. Yamaguchi, a long time personal friend of the Ambassador's as well as Afghanistan's, extended a sincere and warm welcome to H.E. Ambassador Dr. Mohabbat and congratulated him on his recent appointment as the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Japan, noting H.E. Dr. Mohabbat’s long time and experience in Japan was certain to bring him success in his endeavors. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat thanked Hon. Mr. Yamaguchi for his kind words and praised the strong friendship and cooperation between Japan’s Komei Party and Afghanistan through the Embassy of the Islamic Republic Afghanistan in Tokyo. He also thanked the people and Government of the noble nation of Japan for their steadfast friendship and support of the people and Government of Afghanistan over the years. Furthermore, H.E. Dr. Mohabbat expressed his deep hope and desire for the cooperation between the two entities to strengthen further. Hon. Mr. Yamaguchi concurred with H.E. Dr. Mohabbat and reciprocally conveyed his hope and desires to see further cooperation between the Komei Party and the Embassy of Afghanistan in Tokyo. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat briefed Hon. Mr. Yamaguchi on Afghanistan's recent progress towards securing peace and security in the region. Hon. Mr. Yamaguchi remarked that Japan was eager to advance its investment in the economics and import/export of Afghanistan with further progress in the security sector as it has been attaining under the National Unity Government. Following the exchange, H.E. Dr. Mohabbat and Hon. Mr. Yamaguchi further discussed topics of mutual interest such as the recent speeches by leaders of allied nations planning for active steps to achieving further peace and security in Afghanistan.

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2017.28.08 Signing of Condolence Book at Embassy of Kosovo

Signing of Condolence Book at Embassy of Kosovo

August 28 2017: His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Bashir Mohabbat visited the Embassy of the Republic of Kosovo in Tokyo for the condolence book signing in memory of H.E. Dr. Bajram Rexhapi, the first elected Prime Minister (2002-2004) and Minister of Internal Affairs, who passed away on August 21st, 2017. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat expressed his deepest condolences, on behalf of the people and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, for the passing of HE. Dr. Bajram Rexhepi, as well as expressed his sympathy to the entire nation.

H.E. Mr. Leon Malazogu, Ambassador of the Republic of Kosovo in Japan expressed his sincerest thanks to H.E. Dr. Mohabbat for making the time to come and pay his respects at the condolence book signing. They both agreed to further strengthen and deepen their relations in the future.

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2017.28.08 Attendance at Reception for 72nd Anniversary of the Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia

Attendance at Reception for 72nd Anniversary of the Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia

August 25, 2017: His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Bashir Mohabbat had the pleasure and honor of attending a reception to celebrate the 72nd Anniversary of the Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia. The reception was held at the Imperial Hotel in Tokyo.

During the reception, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Mohabbat took the opportunity to extend a deep congratulations, on behalf of the people and Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, to the Republic of Indonesia, through His Excellency Ambassador Mr. Arifin Tasrif, on this most auspicious day. As Indonesia has continued to express commitment to support and assist the rebuilding Afghanistan in various sectors, including technical training infrastructure, women’s empowerment, higher education, and diplomat training, H.E. Dr. Mohabbat conveyed his hope for the continued welfare of the Indonesian people, peace and prosperity of the Republic, and his desire to foster stronger relations between the two great nations. In return, H.E. Ambassador Mr. Tasrif thanked H.E. Dr. Mohabbat for attending the event as well as for his kind words. He congratulated Afghanistan’s people and Government for their concerted their efforts to effectively promote progress and further democracy. Additionally he noted that their two countries have shared long and warm relations and that with all sincerity he hoped that they would work together to extend and deepen them.

H.E. Dr. Mohabbat also had the pleasure of meeting with H.E. Mr. Yasuo Fukuda, former Prime Minister of Japan, and long time friend of Afghanistan H.E. Mr. Natsuo Yamaguchi, President of the Komeito party with whom he discussed several topics of mutual interest. He also met with several of Their Excellencies the Ambassadors with missions in Japan, many diplomats, high ranking members of Parliament, and notable members of Japan’s business sector with whom he discussed many topics of mutual interest.

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2017.25.08 Visit by Mr. Kondo and Mr. Yano of Meijo University to the Embassy

Visit by Mr. Kondo and Mr. Yano of Meijo University to the Embassy

August 25, 2017: His Excellency Dr. Bashir Mohabbat, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Japan, and Mr. Basir Ahmad Hamdard, First Secretary, had the honor and pleasure of receiving Meijo University’s, Professor Atsushi Kondo, Dean of the Faculty of Law, and Mr. Ikuya Yano, Deputy Chief Executive Administrator, at the Embassy.

H.E. Dr. Bashir Mohabbat extended a warm welcome to both Prof. Kondo and Mr. Yano, greatly appreciating their visit. Prof. Kondo and Mr. Yano sincerely congratulated H.E. Dr. Mohabbat on his appointment as Ambassador and wished him the greatest of success in his endeavors throughout his mission remarking that he was certain to do so due to H.E. Dr. Mohabbat’s long time and experience in Japan. They also carried with them a message of congratulations on his new career from the Honorable Mr. Koichi Yoshihisa, President of Meijo University. Also, congratulating H.E. Dr. Mohabbat on being the first Ambassador alumni from the Meijo University. Prof. Kondo and Mr. Yano implored H.E. Dr. Mohabbat to visit the university to provide inspiration to the students of Meijo. In return, H.E. Dr. Mohabbat thanked them for their most kind congratulatory and is honored to be the first Ambassador alumni from Meijo University. He also gladly accepted to arrange a visit to Meijo to give a talk to current students. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat also would appreciate the assistance of Meijo University to accept Afghan students at their university in order that they may receive the top quality education of the highest caliber such as he himself received when he was a student there. He also discussed with them establishing a "sister school program" between Meijo University and different universities in Afghanistan. Prof. Kondo and Mr. Yano both believed that assisting in doing so would serve as a great assistance to increasing ties between Afghanistan and Japan. In conclusion, H.E. Dr. Mohabbat expressed his most heartfelt thanks to the university for investing him with the invaluable education, experiences, and preparation which have brought him to where he is today.

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2017.24.08 Courtesy Call on H.E. Ambassador of Australia.

Courtesy Call on H.E. Ambassador of Australia.

August 24, 2017: His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Bashir Mohabbat had the honor and pleasure of calling a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Richard Court AC, Ambassador of Australia, at their embassy in Tokyo. Mr. Basir A. Hamdard, First Secretary for the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Japan, and Ms. Imogen Evans, Second Secretary for the Australian Embassy, were also present at the meeting.

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Court expressed his sincere appreciation to H.E. Ambassador Dr. Mohabbat for his visit, and warmly congratulated him on assuming the post as Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Japan. Additionally he wished H.E. Dr. Mohabbat the greatest of success in his endeavors throughout his mission remarking that he was certain to do so due to H.E. Dr. Mohabbat’s long time and experience in Japan. H.E. Mr. Court also noted that Australia counts itself as a good friend of Afghanistan and as such will do its best to continue helping the reconstruction process of Afghanistan, continuing to stand with the people and Government of Afghanistan well into the future.

In return, H.E. Dr. Mohabbat expressed his heartfelt appreciation to H.E. Mr. Court for making time in his busy schedule to meet as well as for the kind words of congratulations. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat extended, on behalf of the people and Government of Afghanistan, his deep gratitude to the noble nation of Australia for their steadfast and generous support to Afghanistan during its reconstruction and development which has helped secure greater peace and stability for the nation as well as improved the lives of the Afghan people. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat pointed out that Afghans regard Australians as close friends due to the long, friendly history between the two nations and the countless Brave Australian soldiers who have risked their lives to help secure peace and democracy in Afghanistan. Additionally H.E. Dr. Mohabbat updated H.E. Mr. Court on the many progressive achievements in Afghanistan over the past 15 years especially those undertaken since the formation of the National Unity Government, all of which were due in part to the great aid and support of friendly nations such as Australia. The two ambassadors further discussed topics of mutual interest such as the recent speeches by leaders of allied nations planning for active steps to achieving further peace and security in Afghanistan.

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2017.23.08 Welcome lunch hosted by H.E. Mr. Akira Sugiyama, Chief of Protocol.

Welcome lunch hosted by H.E. Mr. Akira Sugiyama, Chief of Protocol.

August 23, 2017: It was an honor for His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Bashir Mohabbat to meet with H.E. Mr. Akira Sugiyama, Chief of Protocol for Ministry of Foreign Affairs Japan in a welcome luncheon meeting hosted by the later at the Shangri-La Hotel in Marunouchi.

H.E. Ambassador Dr. Mohabbat expressed his sincerest thanks to H.E. Mr. Akira Sugiyama, Chief of Protocol for making time in his schedules to meet and host the event. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat also thanked him for the long time friendly relationships between Japan and Afghanistan. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat further expressed his thanks to the people and Government of the noble nation of Japan who have sincerely helped Afghanistan achieve great strides in progress on the road towards stability, peace, and prosperity, and updated him on the many progressive achievements in Afghanistan over the past 15 years. Additionally he informed him the new goals and endeavors he seeks to accomplish during his mission.

In return, H.E. Mr. Sugiyama thanked H.E. Ambassador Dr. Mohabbat for attending the meeting and congratulated him on his new appointment, wishing him much success and longevity in his aspirations. H.E. Dr. Sugiyama remarked at the great experience and knowledge of Japan H.E. Dr. Mohabbat had acquired during his stay over the years in Japan noting that it made him ideal in this career. He commented H.E. Dr. Mohabbat would therefore be a wonderful ambassador serving to bridge the two countries, and assured him of Japan’s continued support of Afghanistan in its ongoing development. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat and H.E. Mr. Sugiyama further discussed topics of mutual interest and their hopes for continuing the partnership between Japan and Afghanistan.

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2017.21.08 Courtesy call by H.E. Mitsuji Suzuka, Ambassador of Japan to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

Courtesy call by H.E. Mitsuji Suzuka, Ambassador of Japan to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan.

August 21, 2017: His Excellency Dr. Bashir Mohabbat had the pleasure of receiving a courtesy call by His Excellency Mr. Mitsuji Suzuka, current Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan from Japan. Mr. Ahmad Bashir Ghafoori, First Secretary and Consul, Mr. Basir Hamdard, First Secretary, and Mr. Asif Agah, Second Secretary were also in attendance.

H.E. Mr. Suzuka congratulated H.E. Dr. Mohabbat for becoming the newly appointed Ambassador to Japan, and wished him success in the new career. H.E. Mr. Suzuka added that since H.E. Dr. Mohabbat has lived in Japan for a long time he would certainly succeed; as his experience with Japan and its cultures will help improve the relationship between Afghanistan and Japan and make it stronger. In response, H.E. Dr. Mohabbat thanked H.E. Mr. Suzuka for coming and for his kind words, and on behalf of the Afghan Government and people extended his gratitude for the long support in the reconstruction effort by the Japanese government and the people. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat also expressed optimism for the relationship between Japan and Afghanistan becoming stronger.

H.E. Mr. Suzuka then expressed his condolences for the May 31st Kabul attack, which left over 150 people dead and 400 people injured, with two members of the Japanese Embassy in Kabul. He further stated that terrorism is the common enemy of the world and as such there should be a concerted effort to defeat them. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat thanked him for the sympathy. He then expressed his hope that the international community, including Japan, will support the effort in defeating terrorism. H.E. Mr. Suzuka reaffirmed that Japan will continue its support to Afghanistan until well after it can stand on its own feet and become completely secure and peaceful.

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2017.21.08 Courtesy Call on H.E. Mr. Hiroshi Oka, Director- General of Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau/Ambassador, Special Representative to Afghanistan and Pakistan Assistance at MOFA

Courtesy Call on H.E. Mr. Hiroshi Oka, Director- General of Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau/Ambassador, Special Representative to Afghanistan and Pakistan Assistance at MOFA

August 21, 2017: It was an honor for H.E. Ambassador Dr. Bashir Mohabbat to call on H.E. Mr. Hiroshi Oka, Director-General of Middle Eastern and African Affairs Bureau/Ambassador, Special Representative to Afghanistan and Pakistan Assistance at Ministry of Foreign Affairs Japan, at MOFA headquarters in Kasumigaseki. Also in attendance was Mr. Basir Hamdard, First Secretary for the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Japan and Ms. Kinuka Shibamura, officer at Ministry of Foreign Affairs Japan.

H.E. Director-General Mr. Oka welcomed the diplomats and expressed his sincerest congratulations to H.E. Ambassador Dr. Mohabbat on his new appointment, remarking on his aptitude for the position given his academic background and length if time in Japan, and wishing him the greatest success during his mission. In return, H.E. Dr. Mohabbat thanked him for the welcome as well as his kind words. Further, H.E. Dr. Mohabbat said that as Japan-Afghanistan relations go back for centuries making the two countries relationship quite profound, on behalf of the people and Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan he would like to express heartfelt appreciation and thanks for the noble nation of Japan’s steadfast support and friendship and his sincerest hopes for a deepening and strengthening of their ties.

H.E. Mr. Oka then expressed his condolences for the May 31st Kabul attack, which left over 150 people dead and 400 people injured, with two members of the Japanese Embassy in Kabul, as well as the recent attacks in Sar-e Pol Province. He further stated that terrorism is the common enemy of the world and as such there should be a concerted effort to defeat them. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat thanked him for the sympathy. He then expressed his hope that the international community, including Japan, will support the effort in defeating terrorism. H.E. Mr. Oka reaffirmed that Japan will continue its support to Afghanistan until well after it can stand on its own feet and become completely secure and peaceful.

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2017.16.08 H.E. Amb. Dr. Mohabbat’s Courtesy Call on H.E. Amb. Meriç of Turkey

H.E. Amb. Dr. Mohabbat’s Courtesy Call on H.E. Amb. Meriç of Turkey

August 16, 2017: His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Bashir Mohabbat had the honor and pleasure of calling a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Ahmet Bülent Meriç, Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey, at their embassy in Tokyo. Mr. Basir A. Hamdard, First Secretary, accompanied H.E. Dr. Mohabbat.

H.E. Ambassador Mr. Meriç expressed his warm welcome to H.E. Ambassador Dr. Mohabbat, and congratulated on the appointment as the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Japan. H.E. Mr. Meriç added to wish the success on his career and that the already existing very good, close and brotherly relationship between Afghanistan and Turkey, between diplomats and embassies, even be enhanced.

In response, H.E. Dr. Mohabbat expressed his deep appreciation to H.E. Mr. Meriç for his time, warm welcome, and kind words. Since long time ago, H.E. Dr. Mohabbat noted, Afghanistan and Turkey historically have had very close, brotherly friendship and cooperation. H.E. Ambassador Mohabbat extended his gratitude, on behalf of the people and Government of Afghanistan, to the people and Government of Turkey for years of selfless and generous support to Afghanistan’s reconstruction efforts, which are much appreciated by all Afghans. H.E. Ambassador Meriç noted that Turkey is always on Afghanistan’s side, as it has been, and their mission in Kabul fully and genuinely supports the development of their brotherly country, Afghanistan. He added that Ankara is willing to assist Afghanistan continuously, as well as himself would do so officially and personally. Their Excellencies further discussed the issues of their mutual interest.

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2017.16.08 H.E. Amb. Dr. Mohabbat’s Courtesy Call on H.E. Amb. Starace of Italy

H.E. Amb. Dr. Mohabbat’s Courtesy Call on H.E. Amb. Starace of Italy

August 16, 2017: His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Bashir Mohabbat had the honor and pleasure of calling a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Giorgio Starace, Ambassador of Italy, at their embassy in Tokyo. First Secretaries from both Afghan embassy and Italian embassy, Mr. Basir A. Hamdard, and Mr. Antonio Norfo, were also present at the meeting.

With his warm welcome, H.E. Ambassador Mr. Starace expressed his appreciation to H.E. Ambassador Dr. Mohabbat for his visit, and congratulated him of assuming the post as Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Japan. He added to wish H.E. Dr. Mohabbat for great success and he is sure so due to H.E. Dr. Mohabbat’s deep and long time background with Japan. H.E. Mr. Starace also noted that Italy will do its best to continue helping the reconstruction process of Afghanistan, and will stand with Afghan nation.

H.E. Ambassador Dr. Mohabbat in response expressed his appreciation to H.E. Mr. Starace for the time and warm welcome, as well as kind words of congratulations. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat extended, on behalf of the people and Government of Afghanistan, his deep gratitude to the noble nation of Italy for their generous support to Afghan reconstruction and development, namely their Provincial Construction Team’s projects. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat also noted that Afghans regard Italy closely to themselves due to the long, friendly history between the two nations, and the fact that many Afghans have traveled and/or lived in the country for years including their royal families.

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2017.15.08 Amb. Dr. Mohabbat Meets Mr. Nakahara of JICA

Amb. Dr. Mohabbat Meets Mr. Nakahara of JICA

August 15, 2017: His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Bashir Mohabbat had the pleasure of receiving a courtesy call by Mr. Masataka Nakahara, Visiting Senior Advisor on Afghanistan, Japan International Cooperation Agency, who is a long time friend of Ambassador Dr. Mohabbat personally and of the people of Afghanistan. Mr. Nakahara expressed his sincere congratulations to H.E. Dr. Mohabbat for his appointment as new Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Japan, and wished him great success. He added that he is very much looking forward to continuing to work closely again with H.E. Dr. Mohabbat.

H.E. Dr. Mohabbat in response thanked Mr. Nakahara for his kind visit and words of congratulations. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat further expressed his deep gratitude, on behalf of the people and Government of Afghanistan, to years of Japan’s selfless and impact generating support to Afghanistan’s reconstruction efforts, particularly by JICA. He, too, wished for Mr. Nakahara’s continuous success and added that he also is looking forward to working with such a prominent expert on Afghanistan’s development process.

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2017.10.08 Amb. Dr. Mohabbat Calls on Amb. De Benito of Spain

Amb. Dr. Mohabbat Calls on Amb. De Benito of Spain

August 10, 2017: His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Bashir Mohabbat had the honor and pleasure of making a courtesy call on H.E. Mr. Gonzalo de Benito Secades, Ambassador of Spain. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat expressed his appreciation to H.E. de Benito for accepting the visit despite his busy schedule and, on behalf of the people and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, deep gratitude to the people and the Government of Spain for all their support for Afghanistan’s reconstruction efforts over the years. Thanks to the long and friendly relationship between the nations, H.E. Dr. Mohabbat added, Afghanistan was able to come to the point where they are today, with the foundation of democracy and economic development installed so that Afghanistan could focus on its self-reliance. 

H.E. Mr. de Benito in return expressed his warm welcome and congratulations on H.E. Dr. Mohabbat’s appointment as new Afghan Ambassador to Japan. Asked about the current situation of Afghanistan and the region, H.E. Dr. Mohabbat noted that despite the aforementioned generous support from the international community including from Spain, and Afghanistan’s efforts, the country still has issues to tackle, terrorism in particular, as it’s imposed on Afghanistan from outside its border. H.E. de Benito said that he is aware of the issue, and expressed that Spain stands in solidarity as a friend of Afghanistan, against such unacceptable acts in today’s world.

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2017. 10. 08 Mr. Hamdard meets with Mrs. Khadija Al-Salman

Mr. Hamdard meets with Mrs. Khadija Al-Salman

August 10, 2017: Mr. Basir Ahmad Hamdard, First Secretary and Political Affairs of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Japan, met with Mrs. Khadija Al-Salman, First Secretary of the Republic of Iraq in Japan. Mr. Hamdard and Mrs. Al-Salman firstly had a pleasant conversation with how the relationship between Afghanistan and Iraq have strong relations dating back centuries.

Mr. Hamdard then expressed sadness for the July 31st Attack in Kabul, which was where ISIS stormed the Republic of Iraqi Embassy in Kabul. He reassured Mrs. Al-Salman that Afghan Government and the Afghan Special Forces would do it's utmost best to prevent any further similar incidents.

Mrs. Al-Salman responded on behalf of the people and government of Iraq by sincerely thanking him for his visit and also expressed gratitude for the Afghan government and the Afghan Special Forces for successfully protecting the diplomatic mission in Kabul.

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2017.09.08 Amb. Mohabbat welcomes Amb. Shareef of Maldives at the Embassy

Amb. Mohabbat welcomes Amb. Shareef of Maldives at the Embassy

August 9, 2017: His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Bashir Mohabbat had the pleasure of receiving the farewell visit by H.E. Mr. Mohamed Hussain Shareef, Ambassador of the Republic of Maldives to Japan, to the Embassy. Mr. Basir A. Hamdard, First Secretary of the Embassy of Afghanistan in Japan, and Mr. Adam Hamid, First Secretary of the Embassy of Maldives in Japan were also in attendance at the meeting.

H.E. Dr. Mohabbat expressed his warm welcome, and great pleasure for H.E. Ambassador Mr. Shareef, who has maintained close and friendly relationship both in the personal and official levels. H.E. Ambassador Mohabbat congratulated H.E. Mr. Shareef for his new appointment as the Ambassador of the Republic of Maldives to the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, and wished him success in his new career. In return, H.E. Mr. Shareef expressed his deep appreciation to H.E. Dr. Mohabbat for his hospitality and kind words. H.E. Ambassador Shareef, too, expressed his congratulations to H.E. Ambassador Mohabbat for having assumed recently his office fully as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Japan, and added as he is aware H.E. Ambassador Mohabbat has lived in Japan for quite a long time and is knowledgeable of people, culture and the society of Japan very well that he will be a successful Ambassador. The two Ambassadors agreed to maintain the good relationship officially and personally, as well as to further enhance already existing close and friendly relations between the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Republic of Maldives.

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2017. 08.08 Mr. Hamdard Attends Dr. Seyed Abbas Araghchi’s Lecture

Mr. Hamdard Attends Dr. Seyed Abbas Araghchi’s Lecture

August 8, 2017: Mr. Basir Ahmad Hamdard, First Secretary and Political Affairs of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Japan, attended and participated in a lecture given by His Excellency Dr. Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The lecture, entitled "Iran’s New Role in the Middle East” was held at the Sasakawa Peace Foundation in Minato-ku. H.E. Dr. Araghchi discussed how the Iranian Islamic Revolution, the Arab Spring, and the current climate of the Middle East have affected Iran’s role in the struggling region. He explained that following the JCPOA, Iran’s economy has greatly developed, allowing Iran to position itself as a key player in the Middle East, earning itself a new, increasingly stable role. He noted that following the Arab Spring, Libya, Syria, and Iraq greatly struggled with their economies and governments. H.E. Dr. Araghchi concluded with how war and violence cannot solve any of the problems that reside in the region, and that only negotiating together, as exemplified in the JCPOA, is the only solution for peace.

H.E. Dr. Seyed Abbas Araghchi, in addition to having been the former Iranian Ambassador to Japan from 2007 to 2011, was a key figure in the recent Iran nuclear agreement, the JCPOA. The JCPOA was created to ensure that Iran’s nuclear pursuits would be exclusively peaceful. Iran has lived up to its requirements in the agreement, and as a result had nuclear sanctions lifted by the US and EU.

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2017.08.08 Meeting with TUA professors regarding the upcoming Grand Exhibition on the Silk Road and subsequent symposiums

Meeting with TUA professors regarding the upcoming Grand Exhibition on the Silk Road and subsequent symposiums

August 8, 2017: His Excellency Dr. Bashir Mohabbat, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Japan, and Asif Agah, Second Secretary and Cultural Affairs, had the honor of receiving Professor Mr. Takashi Inoue of the Eurasian Cultural Exchange Center, and Visiting Professor Mr. Shigeo Aoki of the Public Collaboration Center, both from the Tokyo University of the Arts, at the embassy. The purpose of the visit was to discuss the upcoming Grand Exhibition on the Silk Road and the subsequent symposium as well as two international conferences discussing the reconstruction of the Buddha statues in Bamiyan.

The exhibition, which will be held from September 23rd to October 26 at the TUA Art Museum in Ueno, Tokyo, will feature artifacts from across the Silk Road as well as the efforts made to conserve these precious cultural artifacts, including some from Mes Aynak, Afghanistan. In relation to this exhibition, the TUA will also hold a symposium regarding the topic, as well as the 14th Bamiyan Experts Conference which will talk specifically about the Bamiyan Buddhas, both of which will be attended by the Acting Minister and Deputy Minister for Cultural Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan; H.E. Professor Mohammad Rasul Bawari.

The professors from TUA asked H.E. Dr. Mohabbat, if necessary, for assistance to bring two Afghan artifacts from the National Museum of Afghanistan in Kabul. They also indicated to their decision of providing training opportunity for two Afghan archaeologists in Japan, as well as inviting H.E. Dr. Mohabbat to the opening ceremony of the exhibition. In return, the Ambassador responded by promising that the Embassy will gladly and fully cooperates with TUA for the success of the exhibition and other related matters. The ambassador also expressed his utmost and hearty appreciation for the university in their efforts on the project for protecting the very valuable cultural and historical heritages of Afghanistan, which will be also a great chance and opportunity to introduce them to the noble people and nation of Japan.

For the detail information of the events, please visit: http://sosin-densin.com/

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2017.05-06.08 Ambassador Dr. Mohabbat Attends Hiroshima Peace Ceremony

Ambassador Dr. Mohabbat Attends Hiroshima Peace Ceremony

August 5, 2017: His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Bashir Mohabbat had the honor of traveling to Hiroshima to attend the Peace Ceremony, this year being its 72nd anniversary. On the prior day to the Ceremony, H.E. Dr. Mohabbat had the pleasure of attending the Welcome Dinner Reception hosted by Hiroshima City where he had a great pleasure of meeting with many distinguished guests, H.E. Mr. Taro Kono, newly appointed Foreign Minister of Japan; H.E. Mr. Tadamori Ohshima, Speaker of the House of Representatives; and Honorable Mr. Kazumi Matsui, Mayor of Hiroshima. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat congratulated H.E. Minister Mr. Kono for his appointment just 2 days ago, and extended his gratitude, on behalf of people and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, for continuous and generous support of Japan to Afghanistan. In return, H.E. Mr. Kono thanked Ambassador for his kind words, and he, too, congratulated H.E. Dr. Mohabbat as the new Afghan Ambassador to Japan, and assured him of Japan’s continued support for Afghanistan. 

Additionally, H.E. Dr. Mohabbat exchanged words with H.E. Mr. Oshima and Hon. Matsui respectively, that he deeply appreciated for the invitation and it was a pleasure to meet them again, while both H.E. Speaker Oshima and Hon. Mayor Matsui welcomed H.E. Ambassador and appreciated for his visit.

August 6, 2017: H.E. Ambassador Dr. Bashir Mohabbat had the honor of attending the Hiroshima Peace Ceremony held at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. The Ceremony was attended by the high ranking officials of Japanese government, including H.E. Prime Minister Mr. Shinzo Abe; H.E. Mr. Natsuo Yamaguchi, Chief Representative of Komei Party (pictured at the bottom); Heads of Missions stationed in Japan from over 80 countries, and thousands of people, to commemorate and renew the good wishes for the world peace. It was widely televised by both Japanese and international media.

H.E. Dr. Mohabbat, together with the other attendants, renewed their commitments for the world peace and to prevent such tragedies from happening ever again as H.E. Prime Minister Abe and Hon. Mayor Matsui expressed condolences to the victims and their hopes for a peaceful world where there are no more tragedies caused by nuclear weapons.

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2017. 03. 08 Mr. Ghafoori attends the National Day Reception of Bolivia

Mr. Ghafoori attends the National Day Reception of Bolivia

August 3, 2017: Mr. Ahmad Bashir Ghafoori, First Secretary of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, had the honor and pleasure of attending the reception celebrating the 192nd Anniversary of the Independence of the Plurinational State of Bolivia hosted at the Tokyo Prince Hotel by the Embassy of Bolivia.

Mr. Ghafoori congratulated the Charge d’Affaires ad interim of the Plurinational State of Bolivia, Mrs. Angela Karin Ayllon Quisbert, on this occasion. In return, Mrs. Ayllon Quisbert thanked Mr. Ghafoori for his kind words and attendance. He, in addition, had a pleasure of meeting with the governmental officials, diplomats, and distinguished guests, who he discussed the issues of mutual interests.

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2017. 02. 08 Mr. Ghafoori attends the 15th Anniversary Reception of the ICC

Mr. Ghafoori attends the 15th Anniversary Reception of the ICC

August 2, 2017: Mr. Ahmad Bashir Ghafoori, First Secretary of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, had the pleasure of attending the reception in celebration of the 15th anniversary of the International Criminal Court held at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Tokyo. This reception was co-hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, the Embassy of the Netherlands, and the International Criminal Court.

Mr. Ghafoori had the pleasure of meeting and discussing with many distinguished guests, His Excellency Mr. Aart Jacobi, Ambassador of the Netherlands to Japan in particular. Mr. Ghafoori thanked deeply H.E. Ambassador Mr. Jacobi for hosting and inviting him to such wonderful event. In return, H.E. Mr. Jacobi thanked Mr. Ghafoori for his kind words and attendance. Mr. Ghafoori met with Honorable Judge Ms. Kuniko Ozaki, Vice-President of the International Criminal Court, who Mr. Ghafoori expressed his congratulations on this occasion on behalf of the Embassy of Afghanistan.

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2017. 02. 08 Mr. Ghafoori attends the Okayama Prefecture’s Fair

Mr. Ghafoori attends the Okayama Prefecture’s Fair

August 2, 2017: Mr. Ahmad Bashir Ghafoori, First Secretary of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, had the honor and pleasure of attending Okayama Prefecture’s promotional fair titled as “Okayama, the Land of Sunshine Seminar” co-hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan and Okayama Prefectural Government at the Iikura House. The seminar displayed the beautiful nature, rich cuisine, historic sites, and the rich history in Okayama. This event provided the attending diplomats, the government officials, and other attending guests to develop a deeper and more nuanced understanding of the richness and variety of Japanese history and culture through Okayama.

Key to the mission of this event, with the presence of H.E. Mr. Fumio Kishida, Foreign Minister, is to foster a depth of understanding about the region among foreign diplomats. As such, the interactions at this tremendous event did much to enhance and grow the bond between Japanese local governments, communities, and the diplomatic corps.

At the seminar, many diplomats were present, and Mr. Ghafoori had a pleasure of meeting with some of the distinguished guests and discussed many topics of the mutual interest.

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2017.08.02 H. E. Ambassador Dr. Mohabbat Attends the Cormorant-Fishing Party and City Tour in Gifu Prefecture

August 2, 2017: His Excellency Dr. Bashir Mohabbat, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, attended the Cormorant-Fishing Party on the River Nagara in Gifu Prefecture. The event began in the Banquet Room of the Gifu Miyako Hotel, where a screening of a short film about cormorant fishing was held. Following the wonderful show, the guests boarded barges on the River Nagara and commenced cormorant fishing, at the conclusion of which the distinguished guests returned to the Ballroom for a tremendous buffet dinner. The ceremony has been held every year at the invitation of the Imperial Household Agency. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat had the honor and pleasure of meeting again His Excellency Mr. Yoshitaka Akimoto, the Grand Master of Ceremonies, and the Honorable Mr. Shigemitsu Hosoe, Mayor of Gifu City.

H.E. Dr. Mohabbat engaged in many conversations on topics of mutual interest with the eminent guests in attendance, and thanked the Imperial Household Agency for his invitation. At the ceremony, H.E. Dr. Mohabbat further expressed appreciation for the generous support of the people and government of Japan in assisting Afghan reconstruction, and wished for continuous friendship between Afghanistan and Japan. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat affirmed the importance of such deeply rooted cultural events, which do much to enhance the diplomatic missions of the various nations represented.

August 3, 2017: On the following day, His Excellency Ambassador Dr. Bashir Mohabbat had the tremendous honour of attending a tour of Gifu prefecture, along with numerous other ambassadors, at the invitation of the Gifu Prefectural Government. Known as “The Land of Clear Waters,” Gifu Prefecture offers stunning retreats into nature and is a wonderful showcase of the beauty Japan has to offer, in addition to its many historic towns and cities. The tour took the distinguished Ambassadors, diplomats, and their families through beautiful Nakatsugawa City, the Magome-juku post station of Edo period, historic Ena City, and the Hiroshige Museum of Art. Not only were the distinguished guests afforded the opportunity to experience a rich history and natural beauty, but the tour provided a unique opportunity to deepen the relationships between ambassadors with diplomatic missions in Japan and the local government of Gifu Prefecture. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat expressed his appreciation to Honorable Mr. Hajime Furuta, Governor of Gifu Prefecture, and the staff of Gifu Prefecture Government who hosted and organized such an hospitable tour.

http://www.afghanembassyjp.com/en/embassy/?pn=2069

2017. 02 .08 Mr. Hamdard's Meeting with Mr. Nazarov

Mr. Hamdard's Meeting with Mr. Nazarov

August 2, 2017: Mr. Basir Ahmad Hamdard, First Secretary and Political Affairs of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Japan, had the pleasure and honor of meeting with Mr. Aziz Nazarov, Second Secretary of the Embassy of the Republic of Tajikistan in Japan, at the Embassy of Tajikistan in Tokyo.

Mr. Nazarov extended a warm welcome to Mr. Hamdard, who in return thanked Mr. Nazarov for his kind words and warm welcome. Mr. Hamdard also noted the strong cooperation in all sectors between Tajikistan and Afghanistan and the political relations, which are improving day by day.

In response, Mr. Nazarov expressed his desire to see peace and stability in both Afghanistan and the region; however, some neighboring countries support of terrorism and extremism is preventing this. Because of terrorist and extremist activity, Mr. Nazarov and Mr. Hamdard conveyed hope for the two nations to work closer together and pursue a peaceful, stabilized region.

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