The Government of Japan has decided to extend a loan assistance of up to sixteen billion six hundred and thirty-six million Japanese yen (¥16,636,000,000), approximately fifteen billion, two hundred and eighty-eight million Nepalese rupees (NRs.15,288,000,000), to the Government of Nepal to implement the Nagdhunga Tunnel Construction Project in Japan’s Fiscal Year 2016.

Mr. Nobuo KISHI, State Minister for Foreign Affairs, pledged this project on September 1st 2016, at the ceremony of the 60th Anniversary of Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and Nepal. So this project is regarded as the 60th anniversary commemoration project.

In this context, His Excellency Mr. Masashi OGAWA, Ambassador of Japan to Nepal, and Mr. Shanta Raj Subedi, Secretary of the Ministry of Finance of the Government of Nepal, signed and exchanged a set of Exchange of Notes (E/N) on behalf of their respective governments for extending the said loan at an event organized at the Ministry of Finance on December 22, 2016.

Similarly, a Loan Agreement was also signed and exchanged between Mr. Jun SAKUMA, Chief Representative of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and Mr. Baikuntha Aryal, Chief of International Economic Cooperation Coordination Division of the Ministry of Finance. The ceremony for this event was graciously attended by the Honorable Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Mr. Krishna Bahadur Mahara, and the Honorable Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Mr. Ramesh Lekhak.

Vol. 45, December 2016

Embassy of JapanTel. 4426680, E-mail: cultural-emb@km.mofa.go.jp, URL : http://www.np.emb-japan.go.jp

Japan’s National Day Celebrated

60th Anniversary for the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and Nepal (Year 2016)

List of Commemorative Events

Japan Extends Assistance for the Nagdhunga Tunnel Construction Project

On 2nd December, 2016, Ambassador Ogawa hosted a reception at his residence to celebrate the 83rd auspicious birthday of His Majesty the Emperor Akihito.

Nearly four hundred VVIP and VIP guests attended the reception. The Rt. Honorable Vice-President Nanda Bahadur Pun was the chief guest. Other guests from the Nepal Government included the Rt. Honorable Speaker, Onsari Gharti; Honorable Deputy Prime-Minister, Mr. Bimalendra Nidhi; Honorable Minister of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Mr. Jeevan Bahadur Shahi; Honorable Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr. Daljit Shrepaili; Honorable Minister of Energy, Mr. Janardan Sharm; Honorable Minister of Irrigation, Mr. Deepak Giri and Honorable Minister of Supply, Deepak Bohara. Also Ambassadors and Heads of International Organizations in Nepal, members of the Legislature Parliament and other high ranking government officials were in attendance.

In Japan the Emperor is the symbol of the nation and of national unity. Thus, the birthday of His Majesty the Emperor Akihito, which falls on December 23rd, is also celebrated as the National Day of Japan.

Date Venue Name of Event OrganiserJanuary 22-23 Kathmandu Japanese Film Festival Embassy of Japan(EoJ)

Japanese Language Teachers’ Association Nepal(JALTAN)January 30 Yokohama Earth Tree Open Lecture 2016 “Looking at Japan from Nepal, Looking at

Nepal from Japan”Approved Specified Nonprofit Corporation Earth Tree

February 6 Ishinomaki, (Japan) FUTATABI MUSEUM/FUTATABI NEPAL McCann Healthcare Worldwide Japan, IncFebruary 13 Kathmandu Japan Education Fair EoJ / JASSO / JUAANFebruary 20 Kathmandu Japanese Speech Contest JALTANFebruary 27 Kathmandu Traditional songs and ballads show of Japan Tokushima Nepal Friendship AssociationFeb. 26 - Mar. 8 Kathmandu Exhibition ‘Passage to the Future’ EOJ / Japan FoundationMarch 11 Kathmandu National Seminar on “Six Decade of Japanese Cooperation: Special Refer-

ence to Agricultural Development in Nepal”JICA Alumni Association of Nepal (JAAN)

March 12 Kathmandu Japanese Karaoke Competition EOJ / JALTANMarch 12- Theatres nationwide in Japan “Everest The Summit of the Gods” film project KADOKAWA CORPORATIONMarch 14-18 Tokyo Nepal Photo exhibition“Inside.” by Hirotaka Tsurekawa Student project for NepalMarch 18 Kathmandu 42nd Annual Program of JUAAN JUAANMarch 26-27 Kathmandu Jazz Concert/workshop by SATOH

Masahiko & NoModismoEOJ Japan Foundation

April 1 - June 30 (3 months)

Kathmandu, Gorkha, Pokhara, Lumbini, (Nepal)

Nepal earthquake memorial event “School Oilfield caravan”’ JILIMIL NEPAL! 2016 “DANCE COMPETITION & LIGHT UP FESTIVAL“

(Global environment cultural exchange society) ECOPARTY

April 18-19 Sindhupalchok, Dhading (Nepal) Press Tour on Japan’s Support for Build Back Better Earthquake Recovery in Nepal

JICA Nepal Office, EoJ Embassy of Japan

April 23 Tokyo Nepal earthquake memorial event 1 year has passed ~Remember and keep in mind Nepal~

Japan Platform Nepal Earthquake Emergency Response Working Group

April 23-25 Kathmandu Nepal Earthquake reconstruction baseball tournament Nepal Baseball Club LaliguransApril 25 Kathmandu Nepal Earthquake One Year Memorial Build Back Better and Resilience

WorkshopNational Reconstruction Authority JICA

April 29 Kathmandu Gala Dinner to mark Mt. Manaslu Diamond Jubilee Celebration Japanese Alpine ClubApril - Dec. Tokyo

Fukushima, (TBD)NEPAL NAMASTE NIPPON I thought so! I’ll go to Nepal!

I thought so! I’ll go to Nepal! (LOVE FOR NIPPON)

June 21-22 Kathmandu Workshop on Japan-Nepal Urgent Collaborative Projects regarding the April 2015 Nepal earthquake within the J-RAPID Program

Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST)

June 27-30 Oct.-Nov. (TBD)

Yokohama Kathmandu

Training on Structural and Seismic Engineering for Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Support -Yokohama C2C Initiative for CITYNET Disaster Cluster-

City of Yokohama CITYNET Yokohama Project Office

June 30 Kathmandu Nepal Eartquake Charity Live Concert Fuji OK Japanese Language Center Pvt. LtdJuly 11 - Aug 22 Kathmandu 1ST IKEBANA CLASS Japanese Language Teachers’ Association Nepal (JALTAN)July 15 Tokyo Nepal Seminar “Business Possibilities in Nepal” Japan - Nepal Business AssociationJuly 16 Kathmandu South Asia Federation of Japanese Alumni Association meeting and

Japanese Language Speech ContestJUAAN

July 17 Dec. 17-19

Shizuoka Kathmandu, Patan

EDO DAIKAGURA IN NEPAL SANTARO KAGURA

Nepal Plantation of native-species seedlings for restoration of native forest in Changnarayan, Nepal

Yamada Bee Company, Inc.

July 30 - 31 Kathmandu On July 30: 1) Seminar on “Role of Japanese Language Education Strength-ening Japan Nepal Relationship” 2) Exhibition on “Semblance between Japan and Nepal” 3) “Japan Nepal Night” On July 31: Only exhibition open to all public

Japanese Language Teachers’ Association Nepal(JALTAN) Nepal AOTS Alumni Association (NAAS)

August 6 - 7 Tokyo 9th Nepal Festival 2016 Non Profit Organisation NRNA JAPANAugust 10 - Decem-ber 10

Dhadingbesi (Nepal)

Disaster Protection Education/ Evacuation drills JICA JOCV Education Team

August 20 Kathmandu 4th Japanese Language Speech Contest Japanese Language School Association of Nepal (JALSAN)September 1 Kathmandu Performance of Japanese drum AkafujidaikoSeptember 20 Tokyo Public Lecture Rissho UniversitySept. 23 - 27 Kathmandu Nepal Chamber Expo 2016 Nepal Chamber of CommerceSeptember 25 Yokohama Sharing Happiness with Dr. Kamal Phuyal Approved Specified Nonprofit Corporation Earth TreeSeptember 26 Kathmandu Talk Program on Nepal-Japan Relations: Enhancing Closer Cooperation International Concern CenterOctober 1 Tokyo “My Nepal” Creative Karuta Workshop Karuta 2020 Project TeamOctober 1 - 2 Hive Nagaoka (Japan) The 2016 Everyone’s Disaster Prevention Fair / Friendship booth with Nepal The Everyone’s Disaster Prevention Fair Executive CommitteeOctober 19 Pokhara The 10th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Sakura Feeder Hostel in

PokharaJapan-Nepal Female Education Association (JNFEA) & Kanya Campus Pokhara (KCP)

October 22 - 23 Kathmandu Sadao Watanabe Jazz Concert Embassy of Japan (EOJ)October 29 Tokyo Japan Nepal Smile Festival Japan-Nepal friendship societyOctober - In Japan Nepal Nepal Promotion Film Project Nepal Promotion Film Management Office

November 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26

Kathmandu, Pokhara, Lumbini WORLD PEACE through MANDALA in Nepal

NPO M21 NETWORK

November 18 Chitwan (Nepal)

Symposium on Animal Health and Reproduction Faculty of Animal Science, Veterinary Science and Fisheries, Agriculture and Forestry University

November 19 Kathmandu, (Nepal) Nepal Earthquake Charity Friendly Football Match ColorbathNov. 19 - 22 Kathmandu

(Nepal)The improvement support of Education, Reconstruction of school and the improvement in awareness of Disaster and training in Nepal

2670 District Port Nagoya Rotary club

November 26 Kathmandu Japan Festival 2016 in Nepal Japan Festival 2016 Executive CommitteeNovember 26 Kathmandu Japanese Karaoke Competition EoJ / JALTANNov. 26 - 28 Dec. 2 - 8

Hetauda Patan

TAUE PROJECT 2016 IN Nepal Sirjana College of Fine Arts / Setsu Suzuki & TAUE Project 2016 Committee

November Pokhara, Kathmandu, Naurikot, Chitwan

Nepal Special Full moon Tour with Mr. Yuichiro Miura Global Youth Bureau Co., Ltd.

November 1 - March 30, 2017

Nepal MANASLU HELICOPTER TREKKING FOR 11 DAYS HIMALAYA KANKO KAIHATSU CO., LTD.

November 30 Patan Conference on the preservation of Historic Settlements in Kathmandu Valley

Karyabinayak / Kirtipur / Panauti Shankharapur Municipality, Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties (TNRICP)

December 3 Kathmandu Japanese Education Fair EoJ / JASSODecember 6 Birendra Nagar

(Surkhet, Nepal)Symposium on “Sixty Years of Nepal-Japan Relations: Moving Further Ahead” and Other Activities

Mid-Western University Surkhet, Nepal

December 15 -29 June 11 - 24, 2017

Kathmandu, Pokhara, Gorkha, Bharatpur, Lumbini, Japan

International Community Engagement Program Non-Profit Organization Music Sharing

Dec. 17, 18 Nagasaki Univ., Kumamoto Univ. YMCA KARYOKAI (Japan)

Nepal film show “MAHAVEER” Nepal film “MAHAVEER” Production Committee

Dec. 19 - 21 Kathmandu, (Nepal) Matsumoto City Official Visit to Kathmandu City MATSUMOTO CITYDecember 22 Kathmandu, (Nepal) Symposium on “Sixty Years of Nepal-Japan Relations: Moving Further

Ahead”Tribhuvan University Kirtipur, Kathmandu

December 26 Tokyo Musical event and album release – Gurans and Sakura Nepal Japan Economic Organization

Sadao Watanabe Jazz Concert in Kathmandu

On 22nd and 23rd October, the Embassy of Japan organized a jazz concert at the Tribhuvan Army Officers’ Club, Kathmandu, entitled, “Sadao Watanabe Jazz Concert”, to celebrate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relationship between Japan and Nepal. The concert showcased jazz with different melodies. The band headed by Mr. Sadao Watanabe (saxophone), a legendry and world famous jazz icon from Japan, was composed of artists Akira Onozuka (keyboard), Takashi Yofu (guitar), Koichi Osamu (bass), Masaharu Ishikawa (drums) and N’diasse Niang (percussion).

On the first day of the concert, VIP guests, including Ambassadors and representatives from diplomatic missions in Nepal, high level government officials, and renowned artists, were invited. The vibration of jazz music was enjoyed by an audience of around 1,800 over the two days. The diversity of music melody and its composition caught the hearts of the audiences who enthusiastically enjoyed and appreciated the world class jazz music performances.

On 24th October, the artists visited the Gyan Bijay Secondary School at Bhaktapur and the Kathmandu Jazz Conservatory at Patan, for a cultural exchange program with students of the respective schools. Students enjoyed the music sessions with the Japanese artists and commented that “this event is very memorable for us as great artists are in our school, and it will be an unbelievable memory”.

The Embassy of Japan together with the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) and Japanese Universities Alumni Association Nepal (JUAAN), held the 10th Study in Japan Fair on 3rd December, 2016 at the Yak and Yeti Hotel. This event is organized every year to promote study in Japan by providing Nepalese students and educators with correct information about Japanese higher education and research so as to help the students choose an appropriate university and achieve their academic pursuits.

The fair offered information on study in Japan, scholarship programs, and application procedures for scholarships, as

well as information on a selection of universities; entrance examination procedures; university ranking; ways to find a research adviser, and some guidance on Japanese lifestyle. Some 950 university students and educational administrators attended the fair.

This year, leading Japanese universities and institutions, namely

Kake Educational Institute; Nagaoka University of Technology; Nihon Wellness Sports University; Ritsumeikan University; Shimane University; Soka University; Teikyo University; Waseda University, and Japan Educational Exchanges and Service (JEES) took part in the fair.

On 26th November, 2016, the Japanese Embassy and Japanese Language Teachers` Association-Nepal (JALTAN) successfully organized the Japanese Language Karaoke Competition with 29 participants at the Army Officers’ Club. Conducted annually with the purpose of introducing Japanese culture to Nepali people, the competition drew a wide range of participants from the general public and Japanese language learners.

With an audience of more than 600, the auditorium was filled with an atmosphere of energy, enthusiasm and anticipation. All the participants managed to impress the audience with songs of their choice. The vast talent of the participants was incredible: some participants dressed according to the theme of the song, while other group performances displayed creativity. Ms. Janaki Prajapati from the New International Language Institute came first in the competition.

The competition was jointly supported by JICA, Nepal Office; the Japanese Association in Nepal; the Japanese Universities Alumni Association, Nepal (JUAAN); JICA Alumni Association of Nepal (JAAN), and Nepal AOTS Alumni Society (NAAS).

conversation using picture cards, illustrations, and videos, as well as how to improve the four skills (reading, writing, speaking and listening) of learners. We realized that teaching language is greatly influenced by socio-economic changes in the country and the world, and the topic themes and course books need to keep up with these changes. This time we learned through a book called “Marugoto”; a course book developed by the Japan Foundation for foreign students. We found that the book is focused on conversation, and have come to realize that teaching grammar and theory alone is not sufficient. We should teach the students about the culture and customs of Japanese society.

Another wonderful part of the training program was the Japanese cultural experiences such as witnessing a tea ceremony, calligraphy, kabuki theatre, making crafts, attending a Japanese summer festival and visits to Japanese high schools. Moreover, we visited many ancient shrines and temples in Tokyo and Kyoto. The field trip to Osaka and Kyoto was very memorable and fruitful for us. In particular, the visit to the Kyoto International Manga Museum was very interesting and melodious. We also enjoyed the home-stay with a Japanese family very much as this helped us experience Japanese people and culture first hand, which is better than learning out of books. All in all, the program was indeed very enlightening and fruitful.

After returning to Nepal from Japan, we found that we are more confident in teaching the Japanese language. And we are proud of the fulfilling experiences and knowledge we gained from this program.”

Grant Assistance for Japanese NGO Projects Scheme

Japanese Assistance for the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)

Strengthening Project in Chitwan District

Signing Ceremony: 4th November, 2016

Amount: USD 225,490 (equivalent to approximately NPR 24.05 million)

Grant Assistance has been provided to Shapla Neer Citizen’s Committee in Japan for Overseas Support under the Grant Assistance for Japanese NGO Projects Scheme. Shapla Neer, a NGO based in Japan, will work with a Nepalese partner NGO, Rural Reconstruction Nepal (RRN), to implement the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Strengthening Project in Chitwan District.

This grant assistance will be used to implement a project in both Madi Municipality, a flood prone area, and Lothar VDC, a land-slide prone area, in Chitwan District. This project aims to strengthen community resilience towards disasters.

Under this loan assistance, the project will purchase the products and services necessary to construct 5.05 kilometers of tunnel-road stretches from Baad Bhanjyang, Kathmandu to Sisnekhola, Dhading district. 2.45 kilometers of the stretch will be a two-lane tunnel and 2.20 kilometers (Kathmandu side) and 0.40 kilometers (Dhading Side) will be approach roads. It is anticipated that this project will significantly improve vehicular movement and, accordingly, travel time and transport expenses for fuel and spare parts will also significantly decrease.

Considering the request of the Government of Nepal, the Government of Japan has decided to implement this project to improve transport infrastructure of Nepal. This project has been long awaited in the transport sector to achieve a higher

level of safety and smooth operation for in - and out-bound vehicles from the Kathmandu Valley. The Government of Japan considers that this project will be a symbolic landmark for the socio-economic

development of Nepal and for the deepening relationship between our two countries.

The project components are (1) Civil works (Construction of the Tunnel (2.45km), Construction of the Approach Road (2.6km), Construction of 2 Bridges along Approach Road, Construction of Toll facility, Construction of Control office, Disposal Area Development, Construction of Distribution line (4.1km) and (2) Consulting service (Detailed Design, Preparation of Bidding Document, Construction Supervision, Capacity Development for Operation and Maintenance, Safeguard).

three hundred and twenty one million Nepalese Rupees (NRs.321,000,000) to the government of Nepal for the implementation of the Food Assistance Program. In 2015, Nepal was hit by tragic earthquakes which were followed

by natural calamities including landslides and heavy rain. Many agro products were washed away or withered to death. As a result, a huge number of Nepali people are still facing difficulties in securing minimum amount of food for their life. The aim of the grant assistance is to help the government of Nepal procure rice and supply it to people living in the districts of Nepal where the food deficits occur.

The second set of notes indicates that the government of Japan will extend up to seven hundred fifty four million Japanese Yen (¥754,000,000), equivalent to six hundred and ninety three million Nepalese Rupees (NRs.693,000,000) for the implementation of the Project for Improvement of Medical Equipment in Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital (TUTH). The major objective of this project is to improve the quality and quantity of medical services, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs). The project will replace a part of old medical equipment of TUTH and procure new medical equipment. The project will contribute to enhancing TUTH’s seamless provision of health services as the top referral hospital and to improve the preparedness for possible future disasters.

Japan Extends Grant Aid for the Food Assistance Program and the Project for Improvement of Medical Equipment in

Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital

Japan Approves the Utilization of the Counterpart Fund of KR

The Government of Japan, based on the request made by the Government of Nepal, has approved the utilization of the Counterpart Fund under Food Aid (KR) to the total of six hundred and ten million Nepalese Rupees (NRs.610,000,000) for implementing 7 (seven) projects as follow:

S.No. Name of Project Amount (NRs.)1 Conservation of Panchmukhi Hanuman

Angamchhen, main façade of Durbar (Hanumandhoka) and Degutaleju Temple of Patan

330,000,000

2 Irrigation system maintenance projects 150,000,0003 Construction of warehouse 30,000,0004 Establishment of a NTFP/MAPs

processing plant in the northern part of Sindhupalchok District

25,000,000

5 Establishment of a wood seasoning and treatment plant in Panchkhal

25,000,000

6 Karnali Academy of Health Sciences, Jumla (procurement of equipment)

20,000,000

7 Health service strengthening program 30,000,000Total: 610,000,000

The Counterpart Fund was established through the financial assistance extended by the Government of Japan under Food Aid (KR). The Government of Nepal has procured rice through this assistance and sold it in the domestic market. The amount collected from selling the rice was deposited as a Counterpart Fund. The Fund can be utilized for implementing various social and economic development projects through consultation between the two Governments.

Experiences from Teachers’ Training Program in Japan

10th Study in Japan Fair in Kathmandu

The government of Japan is extending grant assistance of up to one billion and one hundred four million Japanese Yen (¥1,104,000,000) equivalent to one billion and fourteen million Nepalese Rupees (NRs.1,014,000,000) to the government of Nepal for the implementation of two different ODA projects in Japan’s Fiscal Year 2016.

In celebration of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Nepal, and to initiate this grant assistance, His Excellency Mr. Masashi Ogawa, Ambassador of Japan to Nepal, and Mr. Shanta Raj Subedi, Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, signed and exchanged two separate sets of notes, on 28 December 2016 on behalf of their respective governments.

Mr. Hiroyasu Tonokawa, Senior Representative of JICA Nepal and Dr. Baikuntha Aryal, Joint Secretary of the International Economic Cooperation and Coordination Division of the Ministry of Finance of Nepal, also signed and exchanged a separate set of grant agreements, on behalf of their respective organizations, for the smooth implementation of the Project for Improvement of Medical Equipment in Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital.

Under the first set of signed notes, the government of Japan intends to extend a total of up to three hundred and fifty million Japanese Yen (¥350,000,000), equivalent to

Every year the Japan Foundation invites overseas teachers of Japanese language to Japan in order to provide them with an opportunity to improve their Japanese language skills and teaching methodology, and, at the same time, to deepen their knowledge of Japan through Japanese language classes, cultural programs, field trips, etc. This year (July-August) Mr. Chandra Maharjan from the Kathmandu Japanese Language Institute and Mr. Durga Bahadur Rana from the Nepal-Japan Sewa Center enrolled in the teachers’ training two-month intensive course. They have kindly agreed to share their experiences with us:-

“Altogether there were 52 Japanese language teachers from 27 countries. The program brought together Japanese language teachers with different language and cultural backgrounds under one umbrella, connected by Japanese as a common language. The multi-cultural exchanges we experienced indeed helped us broaden our knowledge and understanding of the wider world.

The classes on Japanese language teaching methods were extremely practical. We learned efficient ways to teach grammar and

Japanese Karaoke Competition

Japan Language Profeciency Test (JLPT)On 4th December, 2016, the JLPT was held at St. Mary’s School where around 500 students took the language proficiency exam in Levels N1 to N5. The Japan Foundation offers the JLPT twice a year in July and December, both inside Japan and in more than 60 countries around the world. In Nepal, Japanese Language Teachers’ Association-Nepal (JALTAN) together with the Embassy of Japan conducts the JLPT at all levels during these two months.

The Embassy of Japan together with the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) and Japanese Universities Alumni Association Nepal (JUAAN), held the 10th Study in Japan Fair on 3rd December, 2016 at the Yak and Yeti Hotel. This event is organized every year to promote study in Japan by providing Nepalese students and educators with correct information about Japanese higher education and research so as to help the students choose an appropriate university and achieve their academic pursuits.

The fair offered information on study in Japan, scholarship programs, and application procedures for scholarships, as

well as information on a selection of universities; entrance examination procedures; university ranking; ways to find a research adviser, and some guidance on Japanese lifestyle. Some 950 university students and educational administrators attended the fair.

This year, leading Japanese universities and institutions, namely

Kake Educational Institute; Nagaoka University of Technology; Nihon Wellness Sports University; Ritsumeikan University; Shimane University; Soka University; Teikyo University; Waseda University, and Japan Educational Exchanges and Service (JEES) took part in the fair.

On 26th November, 2016, the Japanese Embassy and Japanese Language Teachers` Association-Nepal (JALTAN) successfully organized the Japanese Language Karaoke Competition with 29 participants at the Army Officers’ Club. Conducted annually with the purpose of introducing Japanese culture to Nepali people, the competition drew a wide range of participants from the general public and Japanese language learners.

With an audience of more than 600, the auditorium was filled with an atmosphere of energy, enthusiasm and anticipation. All the participants managed to impress the audience with songs of their choice. The vast talent of the participants was incredible: some participants dressed according to the theme of the song, while other group performances displayed creativity. Ms. Janaki Prajapati from the New International Language Institute came first in the competition.

The competition was jointly supported by JICA, Nepal Office; the Japanese Association in Nepal; the Japanese Universities Alumni Association, Nepal (JUAAN); JICA Alumni Association of Nepal (JAAN), and Nepal AOTS Alumni Society (NAAS).

conversation using picture cards, illustrations, and videos, as well as how to improve the four skills (reading, writing, speaking and listening) of learners. We realized that teaching language is greatly influenced by socio-economic changes in the country and the world, and the topic themes and course books need to keep up with these changes. This time we learned through a book called “Marugoto”; a course book developed by the Japan Foundation for foreign students. We found that the book is focused on conversation, and have come to realize that teaching grammar and theory alone is not sufficient. We should teach the students about the culture and customs of Japanese society.

Another wonderful part of the training program was the Japanese cultural experiences such as witnessing a tea ceremony, calligraphy, kabuki theatre, making crafts, attending a Japanese summer festival and visits to Japanese high schools. Moreover, we visited many ancient shrines and temples in Tokyo and Kyoto. The field trip to Osaka and Kyoto was very memorable and fruitful for us. In particular, the visit to the Kyoto International Manga Museum was very interesting and melodious. We also enjoyed the home-stay with a Japanese family very much as this helped us experience Japanese people and culture first hand, which is better than learning out of books. All in all, the program was indeed very enlightening and fruitful.

After returning to Nepal from Japan, we found that we are more confident in teaching the Japanese language. And we are proud of the fulfilling experiences and knowledge we gained from this program.”

Grant Assistance for Japanese NGO Projects Scheme

Japanese Assistance for the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)

Strengthening Project in Chitwan District

Signing Ceremony: 4th November, 2016

Amount: USD 225,490 (equivalent to approximately NPR 24.05 million)

Grant Assistance has been provided to Shapla Neer Citizen’s Committee in Japan for Overseas Support under the Grant Assistance for Japanese NGO Projects Scheme. Shapla Neer, a NGO based in Japan, will work with a Nepalese partner NGO, Rural Reconstruction Nepal (RRN), to implement the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Strengthening Project in Chitwan District.

This grant assistance will be used to implement a project in both Madi Municipality, a flood prone area, and Lothar VDC, a land-slide prone area, in Chitwan District. This project aims to strengthen community resilience towards disasters.

Under this loan assistance, the project will purchase the products and services necessary to construct 5.05 kilometers of tunnel-road stretches from Baad Bhanjyang, Kathmandu to Sisnekhola, Dhading district. 2.45 kilometers of the stretch will be a two-lane tunnel and 2.20 kilometers (Kathmandu side) and 0.40 kilometers (Dhading Side) will be approach roads. It is anticipated that this project will significantly improve vehicular movement and, accordingly, travel time and transport expenses for fuel and spare parts will also significantly decrease.

Considering the request of the Government of Nepal, the Government of Japan has decided to implement this project to improve transport infrastructure of Nepal. This project has been long awaited in the transport sector to achieve a higher

level of safety and smooth operation for in - and out-bound vehicles from the Kathmandu Valley. The Government of Japan considers that this project will be a symbolic landmark for the socio-economic

development of Nepal and for the deepening relationship between our two countries.

The project components are (1) Civil works (Construction of the Tunnel (2.45km), Construction of the Approach Road (2.6km), Construction of 2 Bridges along Approach Road, Construction of Toll facility, Construction of Control office, Disposal Area Development, Construction of Distribution line (4.1km) and (2) Consulting service (Detailed Design, Preparation of Bidding Document, Construction Supervision, Capacity Development for Operation and Maintenance, Safeguard).

three hundred and twenty one million Nepalese Rupees (NRs.321,000,000) to the government of Nepal for the implementation of the Food Assistance Program. In 2015, Nepal was hit by tragic earthquakes which were followed

by natural calamities including landslides and heavy rain. Many agro products were washed away or withered to death. As a result, a huge number of Nepali people are still facing difficulties in securing minimum amount of food for their life. The aim of the grant assistance is to help the government of Nepal procure rice and supply it to people living in the districts of Nepal where the food deficits occur.

The second set of notes indicates that the government of Japan will extend up to seven hundred fifty four million Japanese Yen (¥754,000,000), equivalent to six hundred and ninety three million Nepalese Rupees (NRs.693,000,000) for the implementation of the Project for Improvement of Medical Equipment in Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital (TUTH). The major objective of this project is to improve the quality and quantity of medical services, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs). The project will replace a part of old medical equipment of TUTH and procure new medical equipment. The project will contribute to enhancing TUTH’s seamless provision of health services as the top referral hospital and to improve the preparedness for possible future disasters.

Japan Extends Grant Aid for the Food Assistance Program and the Project for Improvement of Medical Equipment in

Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital

Japan Approves the Utilization of the Counterpart Fund of KR

The Government of Japan, based on the request made by the Government of Nepal, has approved the utilization of the Counterpart Fund under Food Aid (KR) to the total of six hundred and ten million Nepalese Rupees (NRs.610,000,000) for implementing 7 (seven) projects as follow:

S.No. Name of Project Amount (NRs.)1 Conservation of Panchmukhi Hanuman

Angamchhen, main façade of Durbar (Hanumandhoka) and Degutaleju Temple of Patan

330,000,000

2 Irrigation system maintenance projects 150,000,0003 Construction of warehouse 30,000,0004 Establishment of a NTFP/MAPs

processing plant in the northern part of Sindhupalchok District

25,000,000

5 Establishment of a wood seasoning and treatment plant in Panchkhal

25,000,000

6 Karnali Academy of Health Sciences, Jumla (procurement of equipment)

20,000,000

7 Health service strengthening program 30,000,000Total: 610,000,000

The Counterpart Fund was established through the financial assistance extended by the Government of Japan under Food Aid (KR). The Government of Nepal has procured rice through this assistance and sold it in the domestic market. The amount collected from selling the rice was deposited as a Counterpart Fund. The Fund can be utilized for implementing various social and economic development projects through consultation between the two Governments.

Experiences from Teachers’ Training Program in Japan

10th Study in Japan Fair in Kathmandu

The government of Japan is extending grant assistance of up to one billion and one hundred four million Japanese Yen (¥1,104,000,000) equivalent to one billion and fourteen million Nepalese Rupees (NRs.1,014,000,000) to the government of Nepal for the implementation of two different ODA projects in Japan’s Fiscal Year 2016.

In celebration of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Nepal, and to initiate this grant assistance, His Excellency Mr. Masashi Ogawa, Ambassador of Japan to Nepal, and Mr. Shanta Raj Subedi, Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, signed and exchanged two separate sets of notes, on 28 December 2016 on behalf of their respective governments.

Mr. Hiroyasu Tonokawa, Senior Representative of JICA Nepal and Dr. Baikuntha Aryal, Joint Secretary of the International Economic Cooperation and Coordination Division of the Ministry of Finance of Nepal, also signed and exchanged a separate set of grant agreements, on behalf of their respective organizations, for the smooth implementation of the Project for Improvement of Medical Equipment in Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital.

Under the first set of signed notes, the government of Japan intends to extend a total of up to three hundred and fifty million Japanese Yen (¥350,000,000), equivalent to

Every year the Japan Foundation invites overseas teachers of Japanese language to Japan in order to provide them with an opportunity to improve their Japanese language skills and teaching methodology, and, at the same time, to deepen their knowledge of Japan through Japanese language classes, cultural programs, field trips, etc. This year (July-August) Mr. Chandra Maharjan from the Kathmandu Japanese Language Institute and Mr. Durga Bahadur Rana from the Nepal-Japan Sewa Center enrolled in the teachers’ training two-month intensive course. They have kindly agreed to share their experiences with us:-

“Altogether there were 52 Japanese language teachers from 27 countries. The program brought together Japanese language teachers with different language and cultural backgrounds under one umbrella, connected by Japanese as a common language. The multi-cultural exchanges we experienced indeed helped us broaden our knowledge and understanding of the wider world.

The classes on Japanese language teaching methods were extremely practical. We learned efficient ways to teach grammar and

Japanese Karaoke Competition

Japan Language Profeciency Test (JLPT)On 4th December, 2016, the JLPT was held at St. Mary’s School where around 500 students took the language proficiency exam in Levels N1 to N5. The Japan Foundation offers the JLPT twice a year in July and December, both inside Japan and in more than 60 countries around the world. In Nepal, Japanese Language Teachers’ Association-Nepal (JALTAN) together with the Embassy of Japan conducts the JLPT at all levels during these two months.

The Embassy of Japan together with the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO) and Japanese Universities Alumni Association Nepal (JUAAN), held the 10th Study in Japan Fair on 3rd December, 2016 at the Yak and Yeti Hotel. This event is organized every year to promote study in Japan by providing Nepalese students and educators with correct information about Japanese higher education and research so as to help the students choose an appropriate university and achieve their academic pursuits.

The fair offered information on study in Japan, scholarship programs, and application procedures for scholarships, as

well as information on a selection of universities; entrance examination procedures; university ranking; ways to find a research adviser, and some guidance on Japanese lifestyle. Some 950 university students and educational administrators attended the fair.

This year, leading Japanese universities and institutions, namely

Kake Educational Institute; Nagaoka University of Technology; Nihon Wellness Sports University; Ritsumeikan University; Shimane University; Soka University; Teikyo University; Waseda University, and Japan Educational Exchanges and Service (JEES) took part in the fair.

On 26th November, 2016, the Japanese Embassy and Japanese Language Teachers` Association-Nepal (JALTAN) successfully organized the Japanese Language Karaoke Competition with 29 participants at the Army Officers’ Club. Conducted annually with the purpose of introducing Japanese culture to Nepali people, the competition drew a wide range of participants from the general public and Japanese language learners.

With an audience of more than 600, the auditorium was filled with an atmosphere of energy, enthusiasm and anticipation. All the participants managed to impress the audience with songs of their choice. The vast talent of the participants was incredible: some participants dressed according to the theme of the song, while other group performances displayed creativity. Ms. Janaki Prajapati from the New International Language Institute came first in the competition.

The competition was jointly supported by JICA, Nepal Office; the Japanese Association in Nepal; the Japanese Universities Alumni Association, Nepal (JUAAN); JICA Alumni Association of Nepal (JAAN), and Nepal AOTS Alumni Society (NAAS).

conversation using picture cards, illustrations, and videos, as well as how to improve the four skills (reading, writing, speaking and listening) of learners. We realized that teaching language is greatly influenced by socio-economic changes in the country and the world, and the topic themes and course books need to keep up with these changes. This time we learned through a book called “Marugoto”; a course book developed by the Japan Foundation for foreign students. We found that the book is focused on conversation, and have come to realize that teaching grammar and theory alone is not sufficient. We should teach the students about the culture and customs of Japanese society.

Another wonderful part of the training program was the Japanese cultural experiences such as witnessing a tea ceremony, calligraphy, kabuki theatre, making crafts, attending a Japanese summer festival and visits to Japanese high schools. Moreover, we visited many ancient shrines and temples in Tokyo and Kyoto. The field trip to Osaka and Kyoto was very memorable and fruitful for us. In particular, the visit to the Kyoto International Manga Museum was very interesting and melodious. We also enjoyed the home-stay with a Japanese family very much as this helped us experience Japanese people and culture first hand, which is better than learning out of books. All in all, the program was indeed very enlightening and fruitful.

After returning to Nepal from Japan, we found that we are more confident in teaching the Japanese language. And we are proud of the fulfilling experiences and knowledge we gained from this program.”

Grant Assistance for Japanese NGO Projects Scheme

Japanese Assistance for the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR)

Strengthening Project in Chitwan District

Signing Ceremony: 4th November, 2016

Amount: USD 225,490 (equivalent to approximately NPR 24.05 million)

Grant Assistance has been provided to Shapla Neer Citizen’s Committee in Japan for Overseas Support under the Grant Assistance for Japanese NGO Projects Scheme. Shapla Neer, a NGO based in Japan, will work with a Nepalese partner NGO, Rural Reconstruction Nepal (RRN), to implement the Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Strengthening Project in Chitwan District.

This grant assistance will be used to implement a project in both Madi Municipality, a flood prone area, and Lothar VDC, a land-slide prone area, in Chitwan District. This project aims to strengthen community resilience towards disasters.

Under this loan assistance, the project will purchase the products and services necessary to construct 5.05 kilometers of tunnel-road stretches from Baad Bhanjyang, Kathmandu to Sisnekhola, Dhading district. 2.45 kilometers of the stretch will be a two-lane tunnel and 2.20 kilometers (Kathmandu side) and 0.40 kilometers (Dhading Side) will be approach roads. It is anticipated that this project will significantly improve vehicular movement and, accordingly, travel time and transport expenses for fuel and spare parts will also significantly decrease.

Considering the request of the Government of Nepal, the Government of Japan has decided to implement this project to improve transport infrastructure of Nepal. This project has been long awaited in the transport sector to achieve a higher

level of safety and smooth operation for in - and out-bound vehicles from the Kathmandu Valley. The Government of Japan considers that this project will be a symbolic landmark for the socio-economic

development of Nepal and for the deepening relationship between our two countries.

The project components are (1) Civil works (Construction of the Tunnel (2.45km), Construction of the Approach Road (2.6km), Construction of 2 Bridges along Approach Road, Construction of Toll facility, Construction of Control office, Disposal Area Development, Construction of Distribution line (4.1km) and (2) Consulting service (Detailed Design, Preparation of Bidding Document, Construction Supervision, Capacity Development for Operation and Maintenance, Safeguard).

three hundred and twenty one million Nepalese Rupees (NRs.321,000,000) to the government of Nepal for the implementation of the Food Assistance Program. In 2015, Nepal was hit by tragic earthquakes which were followed

by natural calamities including landslides and heavy rain. Many agro products were washed away or withered to death. As a result, a huge number of Nepali people are still facing difficulties in securing minimum amount of food for their life. The aim of the grant assistance is to help the government of Nepal procure rice and supply it to people living in the districts of Nepal where the food deficits occur.

The second set of notes indicates that the government of Japan will extend up to seven hundred fifty four million Japanese Yen (¥754,000,000), equivalent to six hundred and ninety three million Nepalese Rupees (NRs.693,000,000) for the implementation of the Project for Improvement of Medical Equipment in Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital (TUTH). The major objective of this project is to improve the quality and quantity of medical services, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs). The project will replace a part of old medical equipment of TUTH and procure new medical equipment. The project will contribute to enhancing TUTH’s seamless provision of health services as the top referral hospital and to improve the preparedness for possible future disasters.

Japan Extends Grant Aid for the Food Assistance Program and the Project for Improvement of Medical Equipment in

Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital

Japan Approves the Utilization of the Counterpart Fund of KR

The Government of Japan, based on the request made by the Government of Nepal, has approved the utilization of the Counterpart Fund under Food Aid (KR) to the total of six hundred and ten million Nepalese Rupees (NRs.610,000,000) for implementing 7 (seven) projects as follow:

S.No. Name of Project Amount (NRs.)1 Conservation of Panchmukhi Hanuman

Angamchhen, main façade of Durbar (Hanumandhoka) and Degutaleju Temple of Patan

330,000,000

2 Irrigation system maintenance projects 150,000,0003 Construction of warehouse 30,000,0004 Establishment of a NTFP/MAPs

processing plant in the northern part of Sindhupalchok District

25,000,000

5 Establishment of a wood seasoning and treatment plant in Panchkhal

25,000,000

6 Karnali Academy of Health Sciences, Jumla (procurement of equipment)

20,000,000

7 Health service strengthening program 30,000,000Total: 610,000,000

The Counterpart Fund was established through the financial assistance extended by the Government of Japan under Food Aid (KR). The Government of Nepal has procured rice through this assistance and sold it in the domestic market. The amount collected from selling the rice was deposited as a Counterpart Fund. The Fund can be utilized for implementing various social and economic development projects through consultation between the two Governments.

Experiences from Teachers’ Training Program in Japan

10th Study in Japan Fair in Kathmandu

The government of Japan is extending grant assistance of up to one billion and one hundred four million Japanese Yen (¥1,104,000,000) equivalent to one billion and fourteen million Nepalese Rupees (NRs.1,014,000,000) to the government of Nepal for the implementation of two different ODA projects in Japan’s Fiscal Year 2016.

In celebration of the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Nepal, and to initiate this grant assistance, His Excellency Mr. Masashi Ogawa, Ambassador of Japan to Nepal, and Mr. Shanta Raj Subedi, Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, signed and exchanged two separate sets of notes, on 28 December 2016 on behalf of their respective governments.

Mr. Hiroyasu Tonokawa, Senior Representative of JICA Nepal and Dr. Baikuntha Aryal, Joint Secretary of the International Economic Cooperation and Coordination Division of the Ministry of Finance of Nepal, also signed and exchanged a separate set of grant agreements, on behalf of their respective organizations, for the smooth implementation of the Project for Improvement of Medical Equipment in Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital.

Under the first set of signed notes, the government of Japan intends to extend a total of up to three hundred and fifty million Japanese Yen (¥350,000,000), equivalent to

Every year the Japan Foundation invites overseas teachers of Japanese language to Japan in order to provide them with an opportunity to improve their Japanese language skills and teaching methodology, and, at the same time, to deepen their knowledge of Japan through Japanese language classes, cultural programs, field trips, etc. This year (July-August) Mr. Chandra Maharjan from the Kathmandu Japanese Language Institute and Mr. Durga Bahadur Rana from the Nepal-Japan Sewa Center enrolled in the teachers’ training two-month intensive course. They have kindly agreed to share their experiences with us:-

“Altogether there were 52 Japanese language teachers from 27 countries. The program brought together Japanese language teachers with different language and cultural backgrounds under one umbrella, connected by Japanese as a common language. The multi-cultural exchanges we experienced indeed helped us broaden our knowledge and understanding of the wider world.

The classes on Japanese language teaching methods were extremely practical. We learned efficient ways to teach grammar and

Japanese Karaoke Competition

Japan Language Profeciency Test (JLPT)On 4th December, 2016, the JLPT was held at St. Mary’s School where around 500 students took the language proficiency exam in Levels N1 to N5. The Japan Foundation offers the JLPT twice a year in July and December, both inside Japan and in more than 60 countries around the world. In Nepal, Japanese Language Teachers’ Association-Nepal (JALTAN) together with the Embassy of Japan conducts the JLPT at all levels during these two months.

The Government of Japan has decided to extend a loan assistance of up to sixteen billion six hundred and thirty-six million Japanese yen (¥16,636,000,000), approximately fifteen billion, two hundred and eighty-eight million Nepalese rupees (NRs.15,288,000,000), to the Government of Nepal to implement the Nagdhunga Tunnel Construction Project in Japan’s Fiscal Year 2016.

Mr. Nobuo KISHI, State Minister for Foreign Affairs, pledged this project on September 1st 2016, at the ceremony of the 60th Anniversary of Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and Nepal. So this project is regarded as the 60th anniversary commemoration project.

In this context, His Excellency Mr. Masashi OGAWA, Ambassador of Japan to Nepal, and Mr. Shanta Raj Subedi, Secretary of the Ministry of Finance of the Government of Nepal, signed and exchanged a set of Exchange of Notes (E/N) on behalf of their respective governments for extending the said loan at an event organized at the Ministry of Finance on December 22, 2016.

Similarly, a Loan Agreement was also signed and exchanged between Mr. Jun SAKUMA, Chief Representative of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and Mr. Baikuntha Aryal, Chief of International Economic Cooperation Coordination Division of the Ministry of Finance. The ceremony for this event was graciously attended by the Honorable Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Mr. Krishna Bahadur Mahara, and the Honorable Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Mr. Ramesh Lekhak.

Vol. 45, December 2016

Embassy of JapanTel. 4426680, E-mail: cultural-emb@km.mofa.go.jp, URL : http://www.np.emb-japan.go.jp

Japan’s National Day Celebrated

60th Anniversary for the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and Nepal (Year 2016)

List of Commemorative Events

Japan Extends Assistance for the Nagdhunga Tunnel Construction Project

On 2nd December, 2016, Ambassador Ogawa hosted a reception at his residence to celebrate the 83rd auspicious birthday of His Majesty the Emperor Akihito.

Nearly four hundred VVIP and VIP guests attended the reception. The Rt. Honorable Vice-President Nanda Bahadur Pun was the chief guest. Other guests from the Nepal Government included the Rt. Honorable Speaker, Onsari Gharti; Honorable Deputy Prime-Minister, Mr. Bimalendra Nidhi; Honorable Minister of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Mr. Jeevan Bahadur Shahi; Honorable Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr. Daljit Shrepaili; Honorable Minister of Energy, Mr. Janardan Sharm; Honorable Minister of Irrigation, Mr. Deepak Giri and Honorable Minister of Supply, Deepak Bohara. Also Ambassadors and Heads of International Organizations in Nepal, members of the Legislature Parliament and other high ranking government officials were in attendance.

In Japan the Emperor is the symbol of the nation and of national unity. Thus, the birthday of His Majesty the Emperor Akihito, which falls on December 23rd, is also celebrated as the National Day of Japan.

Date Venue Name of Event OrganiserJanuary 22-23 Kathmandu Japanese Film Festival Embassy of Japan(EoJ)

Japanese Language Teachers’ Association Nepal(JALTAN)January 30 Yokohama Earth Tree Open Lecture 2016 “Looking at Japan from Nepal, Looking at

Nepal from Japan”Approved Specified Nonprofit Corporation Earth Tree

February 6 Ishinomaki, (Japan) FUTATABI MUSEUM/FUTATABI NEPAL McCann Healthcare Worldwide Japan, IncFebruary 13 Kathmandu Japan Education Fair EoJ / JASSO / JUAANFebruary 20 Kathmandu Japanese Speech Contest JALTANFebruary 27 Kathmandu Traditional songs and ballads show of Japan Tokushima Nepal Friendship AssociationFeb. 26 - Mar. 8 Kathmandu Exhibition ‘Passage to the Future’ EOJ / Japan FoundationMarch 11 Kathmandu National Seminar on “Six Decade of Japanese Cooperation: Special Refer-

ence to Agricultural Development in Nepal”JICA Alumni Association of Nepal (JAAN)

March 12 Kathmandu Japanese Karaoke Competition EOJ / JALTANMarch 12- Theatres nationwide in Japan “Everest The Summit of the Gods” film project KADOKAWA CORPORATIONMarch 14-18 Tokyo Nepal Photo exhibition“Inside.” by Hirotaka Tsurekawa Student project for NepalMarch 18 Kathmandu 42nd Annual Program of JUAAN JUAANMarch 26-27 Kathmandu Jazz Concert/workshop by SATOH

Masahiko & NoModismoEOJ Japan Foundation

April 1 - June 30 (3 months)

Kathmandu, Gorkha, Pokhara, Lumbini, (Nepal)

Nepal earthquake memorial event “School Oilfield caravan”’ JILIMIL NEPAL! 2016 “DANCE COMPETITION & LIGHT UP FESTIVAL“

(Global environment cultural exchange society) ECOPARTY

April 18-19 Sindhupalchok, Dhading (Nepal) Press Tour on Japan’s Support for Build Back Better Earthquake Recovery in Nepal

JICA Nepal Office, EoJ Embassy of Japan

April 23 Tokyo Nepal earthquake memorial event 1 year has passed ~Remember and keep in mind Nepal~

Japan Platform Nepal Earthquake Emergency Response Working Group

April 23-25 Kathmandu Nepal Earthquake reconstruction baseball tournament Nepal Baseball Club LaliguransApril 25 Kathmandu Nepal Earthquake One Year Memorial Build Back Better and Resilience

WorkshopNational Reconstruction Authority JICA

April 29 Kathmandu Gala Dinner to mark Mt. Manaslu Diamond Jubilee Celebration Japanese Alpine ClubApril - Dec. Tokyo

Fukushima, (TBD)NEPAL NAMASTE NIPPON I thought so! I’ll go to Nepal!

I thought so! I’ll go to Nepal! (LOVE FOR NIPPON)

June 21-22 Kathmandu Workshop on Japan-Nepal Urgent Collaborative Projects regarding the April 2015 Nepal earthquake within the J-RAPID Program

Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST)

June 27-30 Oct.-Nov. (TBD)

Yokohama Kathmandu

Training on Structural and Seismic Engineering for Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Support -Yokohama C2C Initiative for CITYNET Disaster Cluster-

City of Yokohama CITYNET Yokohama Project Office

June 30 Kathmandu Nepal Eartquake Charity Live Concert Fuji OK Japanese Language Center Pvt. LtdJuly 11 - Aug 22 Kathmandu 1ST IKEBANA CLASS Japanese Language Teachers’ Association Nepal (JALTAN)July 15 Tokyo Nepal Seminar “Business Possibilities in Nepal” Japan - Nepal Business AssociationJuly 16 Kathmandu South Asia Federation of Japanese Alumni Association meeting and

Japanese Language Speech ContestJUAAN

July 17 Dec. 17-19

Shizuoka Kathmandu, Patan

EDO DAIKAGURA IN NEPAL SANTARO KAGURA

Nepal Plantation of native-species seedlings for restoration of native forest in Changnarayan, Nepal

Yamada Bee Company, Inc.

July 30 - 31 Kathmandu On July 30: 1) Seminar on “Role of Japanese Language Education Strength-ening Japan Nepal Relationship” 2) Exhibition on “Semblance between Japan and Nepal” 3) “Japan Nepal Night” On July 31: Only exhibition open to all public

Japanese Language Teachers’ Association Nepal(JALTAN) Nepal AOTS Alumni Association (NAAS)

August 6 - 7 Tokyo 9th Nepal Festival 2016 Non Profit Organisation NRNA JAPANAugust 10 - Decem-ber 10

Dhadingbesi (Nepal)

Disaster Protection Education/ Evacuation drills JICA JOCV Education Team

August 20 Kathmandu 4th Japanese Language Speech Contest Japanese Language School Association of Nepal (JALSAN)September 1 Kathmandu Performance of Japanese drum AkafujidaikoSeptember 20 Tokyo Public Lecture Rissho UniversitySept. 23 - 27 Kathmandu Nepal Chamber Expo 2016 Nepal Chamber of CommerceSeptember 25 Yokohama Sharing Happiness with Dr. Kamal Phuyal Approved Specified Nonprofit Corporation Earth TreeSeptember 26 Kathmandu Talk Program on Nepal-Japan Relations: Enhancing Closer Cooperation International Concern CenterOctober 1 Tokyo “My Nepal” Creative Karuta Workshop Karuta 2020 Project TeamOctober 1 - 2 Hive Nagaoka (Japan) The 2016 Everyone’s Disaster Prevention Fair / Friendship booth with Nepal The Everyone’s Disaster Prevention Fair Executive CommitteeOctober 19 Pokhara The 10th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Sakura Feeder Hostel in

PokharaJapan-Nepal Female Education Association (JNFEA) & Kanya Campus Pokhara (KCP)

October 22 - 23 Kathmandu Sadao Watanabe Jazz Concert Embassy of Japan (EOJ)October 29 Tokyo Japan Nepal Smile Festival Japan-Nepal friendship societyOctober - In Japan Nepal Nepal Promotion Film Project Nepal Promotion Film Management Office

November 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26

Kathmandu, Pokhara, Lumbini WORLD PEACE through MANDALA in Nepal

NPO M21 NETWORK

November 18 Chitwan (Nepal)

Symposium on Animal Health and Reproduction Faculty of Animal Science, Veterinary Science and Fisheries, Agriculture and Forestry University

November 19 Kathmandu, (Nepal) Nepal Earthquake Charity Friendly Football Match ColorbathNov. 19 - 22 Kathmandu

(Nepal)The improvement support of Education, Reconstruction of school and the improvement in awareness of Disaster and training in Nepal

2670 District Port Nagoya Rotary club

November 26 Kathmandu Japan Festival 2016 in Nepal Japan Festival 2016 Executive CommitteeNovember 26 Kathmandu Japanese Karaoke Competition EoJ / JALTANNov. 26 - 28 Dec. 2 - 8

Hetauda Patan

TAUE PROJECT 2016 IN Nepal Sirjana College of Fine Arts / Setsu Suzuki & TAUE Project 2016 Committee

November Pokhara, Kathmandu, Naurikot, Chitwan

Nepal Special Full moon Tour with Mr. Yuichiro Miura Global Youth Bureau Co., Ltd.

November 1 - March 30, 2017

Nepal MANASLU HELICOPTER TREKKING FOR 11 DAYS HIMALAYA KANKO KAIHATSU CO., LTD.

November 30 Patan Conference on the preservation of Historic Settlements in Kathmandu Valley

Karyabinayak / Kirtipur / Panauti Shankharapur Municipality, Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties (TNRICP)

December 3 Kathmandu Japanese Education Fair EoJ / JASSODecember 6 Birendra Nagar

(Surkhet, Nepal)Symposium on “Sixty Years of Nepal-Japan Relations: Moving Further Ahead” and Other Activities

Mid-Western University Surkhet, Nepal

December 15 -29 June 11 - 24, 2017

Kathmandu, Pokhara, Gorkha, Bharatpur, Lumbini, Japan

International Community Engagement Program Non-Profit Organization Music Sharing

Dec. 17, 18 Nagasaki Univ., Kumamoto Univ. YMCA KARYOKAI (Japan)

Nepal film show “MAHAVEER” Nepal film “MAHAVEER” Production Committee

Dec. 19 - 21 Kathmandu, (Nepal) Matsumoto City Official Visit to Kathmandu City MATSUMOTO CITYDecember 22 Kathmandu, (Nepal) Symposium on “Sixty Years of Nepal-Japan Relations: Moving Further

Ahead”Tribhuvan University Kirtipur, Kathmandu

December 26 Tokyo Musical event and album release – Gurans and Sakura Nepal Japan Economic Organization

Sadao Watanabe Jazz Concert in Kathmandu

On 22nd and 23rd October, the Embassy of Japan organized a jazz concert at the Tribhuvan Army Officers’ Club, Kathmandu, entitled, “Sadao Watanabe Jazz Concert”, to celebrate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relationship between Japan and Nepal. The concert showcased jazz with different melodies. The band headed by Mr. Sadao Watanabe (saxophone), a legendry and world famous jazz icon from Japan, was composed of artists Akira Onozuka (keyboard), Takashi Yofu (guitar), Koichi Osamu (bass), Masaharu Ishikawa (drums) and N’diasse Niang (percussion).

On the first day of the concert, VIP guests, including Ambassadors and representatives from diplomatic missions in Nepal, high level government officials, and renowned artists, were invited. The vibration of jazz music was enjoyed by an audience of around 1,800 over the two days. The diversity of music melody and its composition caught the hearts of the audiences who enthusiastically enjoyed and appreciated the world class jazz music performances.

On 24th October, the artists visited the Gyan Bijay Secondary School at Bhaktapur and the Kathmandu Jazz Conservatory at Patan, for a cultural exchange program with students of the respective schools. Students enjoyed the music sessions with the Japanese artists and commented that “this event is very memorable for us as great artists are in our school, and it will be an unbelievable memory”.

The Government of Japan has decided to extend a loan assistance of up to sixteen billion six hundred and thirty-six million Japanese yen (¥16,636,000,000), approximately fifteen billion, two hundred and eighty-eight million Nepalese rupees (NRs.15,288,000,000), to the Government of Nepal to implement the Nagdhunga Tunnel Construction Project in Japan’s Fiscal Year 2016.

Mr. Nobuo KISHI, State Minister for Foreign Affairs, pledged this project on September 1st 2016, at the ceremony of the 60th Anniversary of Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and Nepal. So this project is regarded as the 60th anniversary commemoration project.

In this context, His Excellency Mr. Masashi OGAWA, Ambassador of Japan to Nepal, and Mr. Shanta Raj Subedi, Secretary of the Ministry of Finance of the Government of Nepal, signed and exchanged a set of Exchange of Notes (E/N) on behalf of their respective governments for extending the said loan at an event organized at the Ministry of Finance on December 22, 2016.

Similarly, a Loan Agreement was also signed and exchanged between Mr. Jun SAKUMA, Chief Representative of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and Mr. Baikuntha Aryal, Chief of International Economic Cooperation Coordination Division of the Ministry of Finance. The ceremony for this event was graciously attended by the Honorable Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Mr. Krishna Bahadur Mahara, and the Honorable Minister for Physical Infrastructure and Transport, Mr. Ramesh Lekhak.

Vol. 45, December 2016

Embassy of JapanTel. 4426680, E-mail: cultural-emb@km.mofa.go.jp, URL : http://www.np.emb-japan.go.jp

Japan’s National Day Celebrated

60th Anniversary for the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations between Japan and Nepal (Year 2016)

List of Commemorative Events

Japan Extends Assistance for the Nagdhunga Tunnel Construction Project

On 2nd December, 2016, Ambassador Ogawa hosted a reception at his residence to celebrate the 83rd auspicious birthday of His Majesty the Emperor Akihito.

Nearly four hundred VVIP and VIP guests attended the reception. The Rt. Honorable Vice-President Nanda Bahadur Pun was the chief guest. Other guests from the Nepal Government included the Rt. Honorable Speaker, Onsari Gharti; Honorable Deputy Prime-Minister, Mr. Bimalendra Nidhi; Honorable Minister of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Mr. Jeevan Bahadur Shahi; Honorable Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr. Daljit Shrepaili; Honorable Minister of Energy, Mr. Janardan Sharm; Honorable Minister of Irrigation, Mr. Deepak Giri and Honorable Minister of Supply, Deepak Bohara. Also Ambassadors and Heads of International Organizations in Nepal, members of the Legislature Parliament and other high ranking government officials were in attendance.

In Japan the Emperor is the symbol of the nation and of national unity. Thus, the birthday of His Majesty the Emperor Akihito, which falls on December 23rd, is also celebrated as the National Day of Japan.

Date Venue Name of Event OrganiserJanuary 22-23 Kathmandu Japanese Film Festival Embassy of Japan(EoJ)

Japanese Language Teachers’ Association Nepal(JALTAN)January 30 Yokohama Earth Tree Open Lecture 2016 “Looking at Japan from Nepal, Looking at

Nepal from Japan”Approved Specified Nonprofit Corporation Earth Tree

February 6 Ishinomaki, (Japan) FUTATABI MUSEUM/FUTATABI NEPAL McCann Healthcare Worldwide Japan, IncFebruary 13 Kathmandu Japan Education Fair EoJ / JASSO / JUAANFebruary 20 Kathmandu Japanese Speech Contest JALTANFebruary 27 Kathmandu Traditional songs and ballads show of Japan Tokushima Nepal Friendship AssociationFeb. 26 - Mar. 8 Kathmandu Exhibition ‘Passage to the Future’ EOJ / Japan FoundationMarch 11 Kathmandu National Seminar on “Six Decade of Japanese Cooperation: Special Refer-

ence to Agricultural Development in Nepal”JICA Alumni Association of Nepal (JAAN)

March 12 Kathmandu Japanese Karaoke Competition EOJ / JALTANMarch 12- Theatres nationwide in Japan “Everest The Summit of the Gods” film project KADOKAWA CORPORATIONMarch 14-18 Tokyo Nepal Photo exhibition“Inside.” by Hirotaka Tsurekawa Student project for NepalMarch 18 Kathmandu 42nd Annual Program of JUAAN JUAANMarch 26-27 Kathmandu Jazz Concert/workshop by SATOH

Masahiko & NoModismoEOJ Japan Foundation

April 1 - June 30 (3 months)

Kathmandu, Gorkha, Pokhara, Lumbini, (Nepal)

Nepal earthquake memorial event “School Oilfield caravan”’ JILIMIL NEPAL! 2016 “DANCE COMPETITION & LIGHT UP FESTIVAL“

(Global environment cultural exchange society) ECOPARTY

April 18-19 Sindhupalchok, Dhading (Nepal) Press Tour on Japan’s Support for Build Back Better Earthquake Recovery in Nepal

JICA Nepal Office, EoJ Embassy of Japan

April 23 Tokyo Nepal earthquake memorial event 1 year has passed ~Remember and keep in mind Nepal~

Japan Platform Nepal Earthquake Emergency Response Working Group

April 23-25 Kathmandu Nepal Earthquake reconstruction baseball tournament Nepal Baseball Club LaliguransApril 25 Kathmandu Nepal Earthquake One Year Memorial Build Back Better and Resilience

WorkshopNational Reconstruction Authority JICA

April 29 Kathmandu Gala Dinner to mark Mt. Manaslu Diamond Jubilee Celebration Japanese Alpine ClubApril - Dec. Tokyo

Fukushima, (TBD)NEPAL NAMASTE NIPPON I thought so! I’ll go to Nepal!

I thought so! I’ll go to Nepal! (LOVE FOR NIPPON)

June 21-22 Kathmandu Workshop on Japan-Nepal Urgent Collaborative Projects regarding the April 2015 Nepal earthquake within the J-RAPID Program

Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST)

June 27-30 Oct.-Nov. (TBD)

Yokohama Kathmandu

Training on Structural and Seismic Engineering for Post-Earthquake Reconstruction Support -Yokohama C2C Initiative for CITYNET Disaster Cluster-

City of Yokohama CITYNET Yokohama Project Office

June 30 Kathmandu Nepal Eartquake Charity Live Concert Fuji OK Japanese Language Center Pvt. LtdJuly 11 - Aug 22 Kathmandu 1ST IKEBANA CLASS Japanese Language Teachers’ Association Nepal (JALTAN)July 15 Tokyo Nepal Seminar “Business Possibilities in Nepal” Japan - Nepal Business AssociationJuly 16 Kathmandu South Asia Federation of Japanese Alumni Association meeting and

Japanese Language Speech ContestJUAAN

July 17 Dec. 17-19

Shizuoka Kathmandu, Patan

EDO DAIKAGURA IN NEPAL SANTARO KAGURA

Nepal Plantation of native-species seedlings for restoration of native forest in Changnarayan, Nepal

Yamada Bee Company, Inc.

July 30 - 31 Kathmandu On July 30: 1) Seminar on “Role of Japanese Language Education Strength-ening Japan Nepal Relationship” 2) Exhibition on “Semblance between Japan and Nepal” 3) “Japan Nepal Night” On July 31: Only exhibition open to all public

Japanese Language Teachers’ Association Nepal(JALTAN) Nepal AOTS Alumni Association (NAAS)

August 6 - 7 Tokyo 9th Nepal Festival 2016 Non Profit Organisation NRNA JAPANAugust 10 - Decem-ber 10

Dhadingbesi (Nepal)

Disaster Protection Education/ Evacuation drills JICA JOCV Education Team

August 20 Kathmandu 4th Japanese Language Speech Contest Japanese Language School Association of Nepal (JALSAN)September 1 Kathmandu Performance of Japanese drum AkafujidaikoSeptember 20 Tokyo Public Lecture Rissho UniversitySept. 23 - 27 Kathmandu Nepal Chamber Expo 2016 Nepal Chamber of CommerceSeptember 25 Yokohama Sharing Happiness with Dr. Kamal Phuyal Approved Specified Nonprofit Corporation Earth TreeSeptember 26 Kathmandu Talk Program on Nepal-Japan Relations: Enhancing Closer Cooperation International Concern CenterOctober 1 Tokyo “My Nepal” Creative Karuta Workshop Karuta 2020 Project TeamOctober 1 - 2 Hive Nagaoka (Japan) The 2016 Everyone’s Disaster Prevention Fair / Friendship booth with Nepal The Everyone’s Disaster Prevention Fair Executive CommitteeOctober 19 Pokhara The 10th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Sakura Feeder Hostel in

PokharaJapan-Nepal Female Education Association (JNFEA) & Kanya Campus Pokhara (KCP)

October 22 - 23 Kathmandu Sadao Watanabe Jazz Concert Embassy of Japan (EOJ)October 29 Tokyo Japan Nepal Smile Festival Japan-Nepal friendship societyOctober - In Japan Nepal Nepal Promotion Film Project Nepal Promotion Film Management Office

November 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26

Kathmandu, Pokhara, Lumbini WORLD PEACE through MANDALA in Nepal

NPO M21 NETWORK

November 18 Chitwan (Nepal)

Symposium on Animal Health and Reproduction Faculty of Animal Science, Veterinary Science and Fisheries, Agriculture and Forestry University

November 19 Kathmandu, (Nepal) Nepal Earthquake Charity Friendly Football Match ColorbathNov. 19 - 22 Kathmandu

(Nepal)The improvement support of Education, Reconstruction of school and the improvement in awareness of Disaster and training in Nepal

2670 District Port Nagoya Rotary club

November 26 Kathmandu Japan Festival 2016 in Nepal Japan Festival 2016 Executive CommitteeNovember 26 Kathmandu Japanese Karaoke Competition EoJ / JALTANNov. 26 - 28 Dec. 2 - 8

Hetauda Patan

TAUE PROJECT 2016 IN Nepal Sirjana College of Fine Arts / Setsu Suzuki & TAUE Project 2016 Committee

November Pokhara, Kathmandu, Naurikot, Chitwan

Nepal Special Full moon Tour with Mr. Yuichiro Miura Global Youth Bureau Co., Ltd.

November 1 - March 30, 2017

Nepal MANASLU HELICOPTER TREKKING FOR 11 DAYS HIMALAYA KANKO KAIHATSU CO., LTD.

November 30 Patan Conference on the preservation of Historic Settlements in Kathmandu Valley

Karyabinayak / Kirtipur / Panauti Shankharapur Municipality, Tokyo National Research Institute for Cultural Properties (TNRICP)

December 3 Kathmandu Japanese Education Fair EoJ / JASSODecember 6 Birendra Nagar

(Surkhet, Nepal)Symposium on “Sixty Years of Nepal-Japan Relations: Moving Further Ahead” and Other Activities

Mid-Western University Surkhet, Nepal

December 15 -29 June 11 - 24, 2017

Kathmandu, Pokhara, Gorkha, Bharatpur, Lumbini, Japan

International Community Engagement Program Non-Profit Organization Music Sharing

Dec. 17, 18 Nagasaki Univ., Kumamoto Univ. YMCA KARYOKAI (Japan)

Nepal film show “MAHAVEER” Nepal film “MAHAVEER” Production Committee

Dec. 19 - 21 Kathmandu, (Nepal) Matsumoto City Official Visit to Kathmandu City MATSUMOTO CITYDecember 22 Kathmandu, (Nepal) Symposium on “Sixty Years of Nepal-Japan Relations: Moving Further

Ahead”Tribhuvan University Kirtipur, Kathmandu

December 26 Tokyo Musical event and album release – Gurans and Sakura Nepal Japan Economic Organization

Sadao Watanabe Jazz Concert in Kathmandu

On 22nd and 23rd October, the Embassy of Japan organized a jazz concert at the Tribhuvan Army Officers’ Club, Kathmandu, entitled, “Sadao Watanabe Jazz Concert”, to celebrate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relationship between Japan and Nepal. The concert showcased jazz with different melodies. The band headed by Mr. Sadao Watanabe (saxophone), a legendry and world famous jazz icon from Japan, was composed of artists Akira Onozuka (keyboard), Takashi Yofu (guitar), Koichi Osamu (bass), Masaharu Ishikawa (drums) and N’diasse Niang (percussion).

On the first day of the concert, VIP guests, including Ambassadors and representatives from diplomatic missions in Nepal, high level government officials, and renowned artists, were invited. The vibration of jazz music was enjoyed by an audience of around 1,800 over the two days. The diversity of music melody and its composition caught the hearts of the audiences who enthusiastically enjoyed and appreciated the world class jazz music performances.

On 24th October, the artists visited the Gyan Bijay Secondary School at Bhaktapur and the Kathmandu Jazz Conservatory at Patan, for a cultural exchange program with students of the respective schools. Students enjoyed the music sessions with the Japanese artists and commented that “this event is very memorable for us as great artists are in our school, and it will be an unbelievable memory”.