Japan has conferred “the order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon” to Professor Mahmudul Haque of Dhaka University.

Professor Mahmud was honoured in recognition of his great contribution in strengthening cultural exchange through promoting modern art in Japan and Bangladesh, says a press release.

He is the 10th Bangladeshi national who received decoration from the government of Japan.

At the ceremony held in his official residence on Wednesday, Japanese Ambassador Ito Naoki expressed his sincere appreciation to the professor for his longstanding contribution in promoting friendly relations between Japan and Bangladesh through this works and activities.

Professor Mahmud, who obtained a Master’s degree of Fine Arts from Tsukuba University in 1984, has been teaching printmaking at Faculty of Fine Arts, the University of Dhaka over decades.

He also served as Director-General of Bangladesh National Museum and Chief Coordinator of Asian Biennale Bangladesh.

K.M. Khalid, State Minister for Cultural Affairs, was present at the occasion to congratulate him.