The government of Japan has decided to confer the Foreign Minister’s Award on Monzurul Huq, a senior Bangladeshi journalist based in Tokyo, in recognition of his role in strengthening mutual understanding between Bangladesh and Japan.
Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi will present certificates to this year’s recipients at a ceremony on September 5 at Ikura House, the official guesthouse of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tokyo.
Huq, a long-time Tokyo correspondent for Dhaka Courier and Daily Prothom Alo, is the first journalist from a developing country to serve as president of the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of Japan (FCCJ). For more than two decades, he has written extensively on Japan-Bangladesh relations, highlighting Japan’s role in Bangladesh’s economy and history.
“This recognition is unique and inspiring,” Huq told reporters, adding that it would encourage him to continue presenting an objective image of Japan to Bangladeshi readers. He also said the honour would serve as motivation for Bangladeshi journalists who pursue professional reporting at home and abroad despite challenges.
The Foreign Minister’s Award is given annually to individuals—both Japanese and foreign—who have made notable contributions in fields such as culture, academia, business, and social service. This year marks the first time foreign journalists working in Japan are being recognised.