Japan has delivered commemorative coins to Bangladesh to mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. "The coins designed with cherry blossom and water lily symbolise our long-lasting friendship. We hope that the commemorative coins will be seen by many people and contribute to further strengthening our friendly relations," said Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh Ito Naoki Thursday. The envoy met Bangladesh Bank Governor Fazle Kabir and handed over the commemorative coins. Read: Bangladeshi, Malaysian recruiters demand end of syndication in manpower business Japan recognised Bangladesh as a sovereign nation on February 10,1972. Under the Japan Mint and Bangladesh Bank cooperation, 13,000 pieces of Tk50 denominated commemorative silver coins were minted and 3,000 coins were delivered to Bangladesh.