ISLAMABAD – Ambassador of Japan, Hiroshi Oe, and Colonel Ken Asada, Defence Attaché, hosted a well attended reception to mark the 58th anniversary of self-defence day of their country here at a local hotel. National anthem of Pakistan and Japan were played and a cake was also cut at the ceremony. Air Marshal Athar H Bukhari, HI(M), S Bt, Deputy Chief of Air Staff (Personnel) was the chief guest. Federal Minister Sheikh Waqas Akram, Secretary General PML-Q, Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed, President AJK Sardar Muhammad Yaqub Khan and former President AJK, Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry were the prominent guests. 

The reception was attended by parliamentarians, senior civilian and military officials of the Government of Pakistan, members of the diplomatic community and other important dignitaries from the public and private sectors.
Japan Self-Defence Day celebrates the establishment of the Japan Defence Agency and the inauguration of the Japan Ground, Maritime and Air Self-Defence Forces on 1st July 1954. The Japan Defence Agency was upgraded to the Ministry of Defence in 2007. Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed was the centre of attraction for many politicians, diplomats and retired generals as they were discussing with him about the internal situation, Pak US relation and afghan situation.Hiroshi Oe is very humble and polite in dealing. Hiroshe is a known singer in Japan despite a very successful carrier diplomat his spouse is equally active with him to discharge his duty as envoy of Japan in Pakistan in creating friendship with Pakistani people.
Despite the military part of the celebration, the climate of evening was relaxed and visitors loved each other company. A good number of senior women ladies and diplomats also attended the occasion.
The Self-Defence Force of Japan is split into three branches: Ground Self-Defence force, Maritime Self-Defence force and Air Self-Defence force.
The Self-Defence Force’s purpose is to preserve peace, public order and Japan’s independence and safety. About 6% from the national finances are allocated to national defence. Military services are voluntary. The supreme commander of self-defence force is the prime minister.
Meanwhile, Japanese embassy said in a statement that the main theme of Japnese self defense day this year was “WA” which stands for harmony and peace.
The basis of Japanese culture builds on the concept lying behind “WA”.
It said in the ancient times, Japanese people found the fundamental mechanism of harmony which works in nature and have been trying to live in harmony with nature and even today “WA” is seen everywhere in Japanese culture and society.