The two documents are aimed at helping to further develop and enhance the friendship ties and cooperation between the two nations in culture, art, education and science. Under the Memorandums, the organizations will hold joint exhibitions, conferences and training sessions and exchange specialists and students.

Michiko Hirayama, the Director of Hirayama Ikuo Silk Road Museum Foundation, said: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Fund Forum and Ms. Gulnara Karimova on behalf of the Japanese people for providing moral and financial support. We are pleased to know that in times of ordeal Uzbekistan lent a helping hand to our country. We are also hopeful that after signing the Memorandum close cooperation between our organizations will develop.”

Ken Matsuzawa, the President of the International Friendship Exchange Council, stated: “Uzbekistan holds a special place in the Central Asian region, and the purpose of our visit is to set up cooperation in education, economy, culture, science and healthcare. We are aware that the Fund Forum has partnership ties with a number of major international organizations. And we view the establishment of cooperation with the Fund Forum as a serious step toward a successful partnership. Also, many thanks to the Fund Forum for providing financial aid for those affected by the March calamity in Japan.”