Islamabad, November 3,2026: The Government of Japan has conferred the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star, on former Pakistan ambassador to Japan Farukh Akhter Amil in recognition of his contributions to strengthening bilateral relations and promoting friendship between the two countries.
The decoration was announced on November 3 as part of Japan’s 2026 Fall Conferment of Decorations on Foreign Nationals.
Amil served as Pakistan’s ambassador to Japan from 2013 to 2017, during which he worked to strengthen bilateral ties through cultural exchanges and people-to-people engagement.
In August 2015, he invited Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado to a calligraphy exhibition at the Embassy of Pakistan in Japan, symbolically strengthening cultural ties with the Japanese Imperial Family.
He also delivered lectures at more than 50 universities across Japan and held repeated direct dialogues with students and researchers, helping promote mutual understanding among younger generations.
Beyond his diplomatic activities, Amil earned recognition for his support for communities affected by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake.
Shortly after arriving in Japan, and before presenting his credentials, he visited Fukushima, a prefecture devastated by the disaster, demonstrating solidarity with affected residents.
His visit, made by a newly arrived foreign ambassador, was deeply appreciated by local communities, who described it as “unforgettable support.” It left a lasting impression on the people of Fukushima.
Even after completing his diplomatic assignment, Amil continued to promote understanding of Japan in Pakistan.
In February 2025, he co-hosted a photo exhibition, “Beautiful Japan – Through the Eyes of an Ambassador,” with the Embassy of Japan in Pakistan. The exhibition featured photographs he had taken during his tenure in Japan and received coverage in 14 major Pakistani newspapers.
The decoration recognises Amil’s longstanding efforts to strengthen Pakistan-Japan relations, foster cultural understanding and promote lasting friendship between the two countries.
