ISLAMABAD: Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan Takashi Kurai inaugurated a treatment and rehabilitation centre for drug addicts in Gujranwala. The government of Japan has contributed US$ 83,040 to Mian Afzal Trust Hospital – a non-governmental organization in the district which strives to prevent use of drugs and provides rehabilitation services to the affected children and adults, said a press statement issued on Monday. The financial assistance from the government of Japan will help the hospital to expand its rehabilitation services to women and children in the area. Previously, the 125-bed trust hospital in Gujranwala had provided rehabilitation services for male drug users only. With the new funding from Japan, the trust has equipped its hospital with an additional 20-bed treatment facility which will be used exclusively by women and children. Working since 2001, the hospital has expanded its outreach to a number of districts in Punjab, where it provides services aimed at reduction of drug use, prevention of HIV/Aids and treatment of male, female and child drug users. Ambassador Takashi Kurai commended the efforts of the trust on successful completion of the project. He stressed upon the need for consistent efforts to provide quality rehabilitation services for drug users so that they actively participate in the development of the country. He also expressed his hope that this project would not only contribute to improving the lives of drug addicts but also strengthening the existing friendly relations between the people of Japan and Pakistan. The inauguration ceremony was also attended by the NGO’s representatives, government officials and members of local communities. Published in Daily Times, May 8th 2018.