By TRN Online, Kathmandu, June 25: The Government of Japan has extended grant assistance of about Rs. 333 million to the Government of Nepal for the Economic and Social Development Programme.

Saigo Masamichi, Ambassador of Japan to Nepal, and Shreekrishna Nepal, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, signed notes to this effect, on Thursday, according to a press release issued by the Japanese Embassy in Nepal.

The Embassy shed light on importance of the assistance for social development programme mentioning that the COVID-19 infection had rapidly increased over the world and affecting human lives as well as economic and social activities and the dignity of people, the embassy stressed that countries were facing difficulties to provide health and medical services, and this had already severely damaged economic and social activities and wellbeing of the people.

Japan has been working to archive the universal health coverage, however, the current crisis particularly affects countries with vulnerable health systems. Therefore improvement of the health system of each country is essential, the press release read.

"Based on awareness for the problems and in response to a request from the Government of Nepal, the Government of Japan will provide medical equipment to be utilized for taking measures against infectious diseases and the development of healthcare and medical systems."

The Embassy said that Japan also intends to cooperate with the international community, including this support, to take a leading and active role to overcome the global crisis created by COVID-19 pandemic.

The Embassy of Japan is confident that the objectives envisaged by this program will be achieved, and contribute towards further strengthening the relationship, friendship and cooperation between the peoples of Japan and Nepal, read the press release.