The Heart of Asia Herald

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1 The Heart of Asia Herald Newsletter for the Embassy of Afghanistan in Japan The Heart of Asia Herald June September 2017 Volume 1, Issue 2 The happenings & events pertaining to Afghan-Japan Relations. Inside this issue: Monthly greetings, and H.E. Dr. Mohabbat s visit to H.M. the Emperor of Japan 1 Progress & Developments in Afghanistan, and Current Afghan- Japan Relations FEATURE STORY: Afghan s Green Gold Pistachio 3 An Introduction to Samangan Province 2 4 Monthly Greetings to you from the Embassy Message from The Heart of Asia Herald Editors: Greetings to you, dear friends. Thank you for bringing your attention to the second edition of our new newsletter from the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Tokyo. Our goal for this newsletter is to pique the interest of citizens from our local communities here in Japan. We genuinely hope that the interesting facts, histories, provinces, and cultures of Afghanistan catch your attention. We sincerely encourage you to explore the curiosities and wonders that this issue features. Please share your thoughts with us or any ideas on how to make the HAH more interesting and enjoyable. Please enjoy reading this issue and we wish you pleasant days. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat Presents his Letter of Credence to His Majesty the Emperor Japan This June, the embassy graciously welcomed H.E. Dr. Mohabbat as the new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in Japan. On June 19, 2017, in a most memorable event for Afghan-Japan relations, Dr. Bashir Mohabbat presented his Letter of Credence to His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. Accompanying H.E. Ambassador Dr. Mohabbat were the distinguished diplomats of the Afghan Embassy: Mr. Ahmad Bashir Ghafoori, First Secretary and Consul; Mr. Basir Ahmad Hamdard, First Secretary; Mr. Asif Agah, Second Secretary; and Mr. Abdulzaman Akbari, Third Secretary. The Ambassador and his company were escorted by His Excellency Mr. Hideyuki Iizuka, Master of Ceremonies of the Imperial Household Agency, in state vehicles through the palace gates to their meeting with His Majesty the Emperor of Japan. At this time, H.E. Dr. Mohabbat expressed his earnest and deep respects for this most profound honor. He also shared a message direct from H.E. President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani, on behalf of the people and Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, to His Majesty conveying sincere gratitude and the utmost appreciation for the benevolent support and resolute connection Japan has shown toward Afghanistan and her people. (Read the full story at Notable Afghans: Shamsia Hassani and PEACE scholar Hadi Mohibbi 5 Cooking Sheer Pera and Upcoming Events 1

2 Afghan Progress: Trilateral Exchange In August, The President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Mohammad Ashraf Ghani led the Bilateral Compact Executive Committee Meeting. According to His Excellency, the Compact is an Afghan-led initiative to demonstrate the government s commitment to creating a peaceful, stable, and prosperous society (Office of the President). Most notable is the Afghanistan Government s efforts towards creating more than 200 benchmarks set by the 2012 US-Afghanistan Strategic Partnership Agreement. This marks the completion of the Compact s four key parts; Governance, Economics, Peace and Reconciliation, and Security. These benchmarks epitomize Afghanistan s move towards advanced global standards. Health Sector As of August 15, the Ministry of Public Health of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan held a Health Center Anti-Corruption Strategy launching ceremony. The aim of this new strategy, like many other employed by the Afghan Government and His Excellency President Ghani, is to fight corruption so the citizens of Afghanistan may benefit from more efficient and sincere public sectors. The MOPH claims that this strategy will help to provide better and quality health services (MOPH). Specifically, H. E. Dr. Ferozuddin Feroz, Minister of Public Health claimed that the ministry aims to create a transparent and accountable system to ensure that proper attention is given to the health and well-being of the citizens (MOPH). Security On August 22, US President Donald Trump spoke on US- Afghan relations. He committed to beefing up the US military presence in Afghanistan, in order to strengthen security and fight terrorists. In his speech, President Trump emphasized his desire to win in Afghanistan against the violent terrorists that reside in Afghanistan and neighboring countries. Trump specifically called out Pakistan, declaring that they are housing the very terrorists we are fighting [and that] no partnership can survive a country's harbouring of terrorists (President Trump). His Excellency President Ghani then thanked the US for continuing the joint struggle against the threat of terrorism, hand-in-hand with Afghanistan (His Excellency). Afghan-Japan Relations: On August 30, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Bashir Mohabbat met with members of JICA s South Asia Department Staff. This quarter has seen many similar meetings in regards to JICA as H.E. Ambassador Dr. Mohabbat will meet with H.E. the President of JICA, soon. JICA has fought hard for the strengthening of security in Afghanistan, not only in regards to fighting terrorism and making the nation safer, but also in developing the country s connections with Japanese citizens through trade. Afghanistan continues to thank JICA for its support in Afghanistan s move towards selfsustainability and peace. On September 29, H.E. Mr. Mohammad Rasul Bawary, Acting Minister, Ministry of Information and Culture of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan attended the International Meeting Concerning the Safeguarding of Bamiyan World Heritage Site. The meeting was a Technical meeting and symposium organized by the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, UNESCO, and Tokyo University of the Arts Sponsored by the Government of Japan (UNESCO). The Government of Afghanistan and UNESCO, with experts, discussed ideas on how to revitalize the Eastern Buddha Niche (UNESCO). Perhaps reconstruction of the Buddhas will be considered. H.E. Dr. Mohabbat held a reception for H.E. Bawary before the international meeting was held. On September 15, H.E. Dr. Mohabbat held the reception for the Graduation of PEACE Scholars. Three of these scholars were from MEXT, and 57 were from the PEACE Program. 40 new students have just arrived to begin their Master s studies in Japan. From September 18-21, the Asia -Pacific Supreme Court Ministerial Conference was held and attended by H.E. Mr. Said Yousuf Halem, the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan s Chief Justice. 2

3 The Heart of Asia Herald Newsletter for the Embassy of Afghanistan in Japan Afghan s Green Gold Pistachio -Originated in Central Asia around 6,000 BCE -Pistachios are used in various baked goods; Gosh-e-Feel, khatai cookies, and firnee -They have many health benefits! Afghanistan currently ranks ninth in the world for pistachio production! Samangan Province is especially famous for its pistachio cultivation. Afghan pistachios are well known for their distinct, purple appearance. Before the war, 450,000 acres of pistachios existed in Afghanistan. Now half of that amount remains, and faces threats from the continuing war and illegal harvesting. However, steps are being taken to help protect and revive the industry. A mineral-rich fruit that thrives in a mineralrich land Health and Wellness Benefits of Pistachios Cholesterol and sodium free Can help in weight management One serving has as much potassium as half of a banana High protein and low fat content Rich source of antioxidants Promotes healthy gut function for better digestion Chock full of nutrients, including vitamin E, calcium, and thiamine 3

4 سمنگان~ SAMANGAN Province Focus: Once a medieval caravan stop, the small, northern town of Samangan flourishes with ancient, traditional activity even today. The capital of the province is Aybak and the governor is Khairullah Anush. Over 2,430 teachers serve 110,000 students, 35% of which are girls. It was also part of the territories influenced by Buddhist expansion around the fifth Century BC. Historians believe Samangan comes from a Buddhist word that means residents of caves. Takht-e-Rustam, located on a hill near the town, is thought to be the birthplace of ancient Buddhist architecture. It houses a cave monastery. Samangan is home to a few coal mines; however, as there is not too much mining going on, the province specializes in agriculture. Nearly 700,000 acres of land is dedicated to growing many varieties of melons, peaches, plums, raspberries, and maple. The province is even known for pistachios, allowing for this traditional Afghan fruit to revive itself. Although water can be scarce (some rural residents need to walk for hours to retrieve drinking water), the Tasghar-Samangan River provides access to water for irrigation of the many crops that are grown in Samangan. Since there is a large population of Uzbeks, Uzbek bread is a popular food as well. Every Thursday, a weekly market takes place, preserving the ancient traditions of Samangan. Much of the labor force in Samangan is made up of craftsmen who weave rugs. Notably interesting are the craftsmen who specialize in musical instruments and showcase their works of art around Samangan. Like many of the great provinces, Samangan flourishes with and preserves the ancient cultures of Afghanistan. FAMOUS LANDMARKS of SAMANGAN PROVINCE. Samangan Brown Marble Besides agriculture and coal mining, the famous brown Samangan marble extraction is a vital source of income and employment for the province. Samangan marble includes brown, tan, yellow and pink colors, some samples even show fossils. The marble sector is one of the fastest growing industries in Afghanistan. Takht-e-Rustam Created in the 4th and 5th centuries AD of the Kushano-Sassanian period, Takht-e-Rustam is of great cultural importance to the province as a cavernous-rock monastary. Like many ancient site in Afghanistan, Takht-e-Rustam is filled with rich history and complex carvings making it a stunning site. Hazar Sum Hazar Sum is another ancient site in Samangan province. It, like Takht-e- Rustam is a northern Buddhist center. Still under excavation today, Hazar Sum already boasts a few caves that hold carved Buddhist Stupas round shaped structures that are home to various kind of Buddhist relics. 4

5 The Heart of Asia Herald Newsletter for the Embassy of Afghanistan in Japan Afghans You should Know: SHAMSIA HASSANI Modernization Through Art Shamsia Hassani was born to a family of Afghan refugees living in Tehran in She told Emma Graham-Harrison of The Guardian that she began art " like everyone, when [she] was a child, but most people give it up. [She] had no teacher, but [she] continued." Upon starting high school, she discovered that Afghan women were not allowed to enroll in art programs. Returning to Kabul in 2005, Shamsia studied Fine Art at Kabul University, where she currently works as a professor of sculpture. In fact, it wasn t until 2010 that Shamsia was introduced to graffiti as a medium, when a UK-based art workshop came to Kabul, courtesy of the anonymous artist consortium Combat Communications. Today, Shamsia has achieved a notable level of success in that field as she is the first female graffiti artist in Afghanistan, the first 3D street art artist in Afghanistan, and her work has been exhibited in numerous countries all over the world from Europe through Asia. Artistically, Shamsia s work is just as Afghan as it is modern. Applying much of her focus and attention on women, she told Kabul At Work TV, I always do women in burqas for my graffiti but I do it in a modern way. I want to take them out from their old clichéd form. She noted that while some view her artwork as fundamentally foreign, she believes it is in fact a thoroughly local product. They say it s what a Westerner does. I don t see that, if the artist is Afghan and the concept is Afghan. Art is part of the culture...and culture has a role in representing a country. In addition to teaching sculpture for Kabul University, Shamsia hosts two-week graffiti seminars for those students who are interested. After being recognized as one of the top ten artists in Kabul in the year 2009, she and the other nine nominees decided to come together to form the Berang Art Organization, with the goal of creating workshops and expanding seminars for local Afghan artists. The group aims to support a climate of rising artistry and culture to heal a nation that has long been at war. Shamsia and her fellow artists have much to be proud of, and we wish them all the best of success in their efforts to develop the art and culture of Afghanistan. By Martin Fischer Profile of Current PEACE Scholar Mr. Hadi Mohibbi This month s exemplary PEACE Scholar hails from the Afghan province of Wardak, Behsoud. As a Higher Education Ministry Lecturer in the Faculty of Veterinary Science at Kabul University, he has come to Japan to pursue even more education. He has been participating in the PEACE program since 2013 and will finish in 2017, with the career goal of becoming an Assistant Professor. As a current student at the notable Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Mr. Mohibbi studies on the function of steroidogenesis in the goat digestive system, a truly unique and difficult research topic. In his own words, Mr. Mohibbi would like to say that he has learned much about Japan thanks to the PEACE program. To him, Japanese culture is one of the great[est] cultures, which is recognized by, honesty politeness, hardworking and respect to all. Japanese culture influenced [me] a lot especially in the case of educational and social activities, for example, clarify the goals, team-work, nice arrangement, cooperation, honesty during work, respect to other opinion[s] (Mr. Mohibbi). We wish Mr. Mohibbi great success in finishing his thesis and luck in realizing his goals. 5

6 Afghan Recipe: Afghan Rosewater Milk Fudge Sheer Pera for Eid Al Adha Water: 473 ml Rosewater: 14 ml Sugar: 256 g Chopped Pistachios: 30 g Powdered Milk: 512 g 45 cm Square Pan Chopped Walnut 65 g Ground Cardamom: 15 g 1. In a saucepan add water and sugar, stir until sugar dissolves and bring to a boil 2. Turn down heat to medium high, simmer until the syrup thickens (you will feel the syrup thicken as you stir the mixture around about 15 minutes needed) 3. While the syrup is on the stove, mix the rest of the ingredients in a bowl 4. Once syrup is ready, remove from stove, pour into the bowl with the other ingredients. Mix well 5. Pour into the pan, sprinkle the pistachio on top. Let it cool to room temperature 6. Cut into 5 cm squares (recipe via afghancultureunveiled.com) Find us online at: S T A M P Azabudai Minato-ku Tokyo Japan Consular Services and Cultural Outreach Phone: (+81) Fax: (+81) Embassy of Afghanistan In Japan Editors-in-Chief: Mr. A. Agah & Ms. A. Diaz Editors: Lily Boland and Michael Zinkanell Japanese Editors: Mamiko Kan, On Tanaka, Yoku Morimoto Upcoming Events Please watch for more notice about these upcoming events on our Facebook page! October 10/16: The Japan Foundation Awards Presentation the Japan Foundation Awards will have the 45th anniversary in October. Awards are for individuals/organizations that have contributed to the promotion of international mutual understanding and friendship through their academic, artistic, or cultural activities over the years (Japan Foundation). November 11/4: "Afghanistan Day" hosted by Minato International Association. December 12/4: Annual Charity Fair hosted by the Ikebana International Tokyo Founding Chapter, with the presence of H.I.H. Princess Takamado (Honorary President). 6