The Foreign Minister's Commendation (Gaimudaijin Hyosho Award) was awarded to the Citizens Association for Nepal Exchange (CANE), Komagane City, Japan by Fumio KISHIDA, Foreign Minister of Japan.

CANE has been well recognized for its contributions towards deepening the friendship and mutual understanding between Japan and Nepal by promoting cooperation through various programs such as maternal and child health care programs and support for women skill development.

According to the press release of Japanese Embassy, the twin city relationship between Komagane City of Nagano Prefecture, Japan, and Pokhara City of Kaski District, Nepal, who share the common characteristics of being tourist destinations in mountainous regions with splendid scenic beauty, was established in 2001. Since then, the cities have engaged and maintained active and close relationships at both the administrative and citizens’ levels. The success of their efforts has promoted not only the friendship between the two cities but also contribute to strengthening the mutual understanding between Japan and Nepal.

The Foreign Minister’s Certificate of Commendation was introduced in 1983 to honor individuals and groups for outstanding achievements in the international field, to acknowledge their contribution to the promotion of friendship between Japan and other countries. The Commendation also aims to promote understanding and support of the Japanese public for their activities.