Ambassador of Japan inaugurates rehabilitation center for drug addicts

ISLAMABAD, May 7 (APP):The Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, Takashi Kurai, inaugurated a treatment and rehabilitation center for drug addicts in district Gujranwala, Punjab.
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 here on Monday.
The financial assistance from the Government of Japan was essential for Mian Afzal Trust 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. Now, with the new funding from the Government of 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, Mian Afzal Trust 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 Mian Afzal Trust on successful completion of the project. He stressed upon the need of 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.