Key Takeaways:

• Ambassador Maeda Toru presented award to NMA President Fur Gelje Sherpa
• Recognition for 70th anniversary of Manaslu's first ascent (1956)
• NMA praised for decades of service to Nepal's mountain tourism
• Ceremony also included condolences for Broad Peak avalanche victims

KATHMANDU, AUGUST 21 The Embassy of Japan in Nepal has honoured the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) with the Ambassador's Award for its role in organising the 70th anniversary of the first successful ascent of Mount Manaslu. Japanese Ambassador to Nepal Maeda Toru presented the award to NMA President Fur Gelje Sherpa at a ceremony at the association's secretariat in Nagpokhari, Naxal, on Thursday. The award recognises the NMA's efforts to commemorate the historic ascent of Manaslu and its wider contribution to Nepal's mountain tourism, according to the embassy. 'The NMA has been extending its great service for the betterment of Nepal's mountain tourism since its establishment, and it has undertaken countless important initiatives to take Nepal's mountain tourism to the next level,' Ambassador Maeda said. The NMA organised the 70th-anniversary commemorations on May 9 and 10 in Samagaun, Gorkha, and at the International Mountain Museum in Ratopairo, Pokhara. Manaslu's first successful ascent on May 9, 1956, by Japanese mountaineer Toshio Imanishi and Nepali climber Gyalzen Norbu marked a milestone in Himalayan mountaineering and strengthened Nepal-Japan ties. Ambassador Maeda said the NMA's work on the anniversary demonstrated its expertise in promoting Nepal's mountaineering heritage. Receiving the award, Sherpa thanked the Japanese Embassy, describing Japan as a longstanding friend and supporter of Nepal's mountain tourism. 'Japan has been a good friend and great supporter of Nepal's mountain tourism. It is our privilege to receive this prestigious Ambassador's Award,' Sherpa said. The ceremony was attended by officials from the Japanese Embassy, NMA office-bearers, board members, advisers and former presidents of the association. Ambassador Maeda also expressed condolences to the families and colleagues of mountaineers who died in the Broad Peak avalanche last month.