CCAS recently learned of the tragic death of MAAS alum Junya Matsuura, who passed away earlier this year. At the time of his death, Mr. Matsuura was serving as the Deputy Head of Mission at Japan’s Embassy to Pakistan in Islamabad, where he worked to promote bilateral relations between the two countries.
At times, Mr. Matsuura, also served as Japan’s Chargé d’Affaires in Pakistan.
Prior to his positions in Pakistan, Mr. Matsuura spent much of his career in the Middle East, including serving as Ambassador for Palestinian Affairs and Representative of Japan to the Palestinian Authority. During his time in Palestine, Mr. Matsuura advanced numerous multi-million dollar projects to improve water security and promote economic, educational, and social development within Palestinian communities.
“Junya was very hard working and well-liked by faculty, staff and all his fellow classmates at CCAS,” recalls fellow MAAS alum Ian McCary, who—in his position as Political Counselor at the U.S. Embassy Islamabad—worked closely with Mr. Matsuura. “He was a brilliant man and an excellent diplomat. His passing has really saddened the international community in Islamabad, and his many Pakistani friends.”
“Junya was very proud of his daughter, who attended a Pakistani school,” added Mr. McCary. His friend the Canadian diplomat Jane Alkhouri recalled: “He was an avid rock climber and mentored and trained budding Pakistani climbers. He also established many new climbing trails near Islamabad, one of which is named after his daughter, Hana.”
Following his death, Pakistani newspapers published condolences, describing Mr. Matsuura as “a kind and humble person.” He is survived by his wife Mrs. Motoko Matsuura and his daughter, Hana. The CCAS community shares our sincere condolences with Mr. Matsuura’s family and friends on their great loss.
