ISLAMABAD: The governments of Pakistan and Japan have signed a grant agreement aimed at improving child healthcare facilities in South Punjab.
According to the spokesperson for the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Japanese government will provide financial assistance through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for enhancing pediatric healthcare services in the region. Under the agreement, Japan will extend a grant of 2.91 billion Japanese yen (approximately USD 18.62 million).
The funding will be utilized to upgrade medical facilities at the Children’s Hospital and Institute of Child Health (ICH) Multan. ICH Multan is the largest tertiary care children’s hospital in the region, and the project aims to make healthcare services more efficient and accessible for children in South Punjab.
The Exchange of Notes was signed on behalf of Pakistan by Secretary Economic Affairs Muhammad Hamir Karim, while Japanese Ambassador to Pakistan Akamatsu Shuichi signed on behalf of Japan.
Speaking at the ceremony, Secretary Muhammad Hamir Karim expressed appreciation for the continued support of the Japanese government and people, assuring full facilitation to ensure the successful implementation of the project. He added that Pakistan looks forward to further strengthening meaningful bilateral cooperation.
Japanese Ambassador Akamatsu Shuichi reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to working closely with the Government of Pakistan, stating that both countries will continue to enhance their friendly relations and bilateral collaboration.
