Japanese prime minister hopes Osaka Expo will help reunite a divided world

OSAKA — Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba on Saturday expressed hope that Expo 2025 in Osaka will serve as a platform for global unity in a world increasingly fractured by war, trade disputes, and political division.

Speaking at the event’s opening ceremony, Ishiba said, “The world, having overcome the coronavirus pandemic, is now threatened by an array of divisions. At a time like this, it is extremely meaningful that people from around the world gather here to discuss the theme of life and experience cutting-edge technology, diverse ideas, and culture.”

The six-month event officially opens to the public on Sunday under the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.”

Hosted on Yumeshima — a reclaimed island in Osaka Bay — the Expo will feature around 180 countries, regions, and organizations showcasing futuristic innovations across approximately 80 uniquely designed pavilions.

Japan hopes the event will showcase new technologies and promote international cooperation. But the opening comes against a backdrop of geopolitical tensions, including Russia’s war in Ukraine, conflict in the Middle East, and renewed global trade friction following U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of sweeping new tariffs.

Referencing the Expo’s centerpiece — the “Grand Ring,” a massive lattice-like wooden structure that circles the venue — Ishiba said it symbolizes unity and shared purpose. “I sincerely hope the world will unite again through interactions among countries and visitors in and outside of this ring,” he said.

The Grand Ring, the world’s largest wooden architectural structure, stands 20 meters (65 feet) tall and spans a 2-kilometer (1.2-mile) circumference. Its construction accounted for roughly 14% of the Expo’s ¥235 billion ($1.64 billion) cost, which nearly doubled from initial estimates due to inflation and a weakening yen — sparking criticism over public spending.

Japan’s Emperor Naruhito also attended the ceremony and recalled visiting the 1970 Osaka Expo as a child. “I vividly remember how excited I was coming across the latest technology, playing with a wireless phone and looking at the moon rock brought back by the Apollo 12 lunar mission,” he said. The emperor expressed hope that this year’s Expo would similarly inspire a new generation to think about the future of society and sustainability.

Despite high expectations, the Expo faces challenges. Ticket sales remain below target, with only 9 million advance tickets sold so far — short of the organizers’ 14 million goal. Several pavilions, including those of Nepal and India, were still under construction on the eve of the opening. Ukraine and Palestinian exhibits also faced delays due to ongoing conflicts, while Russia has opted not to participate.

This marks the second world expo hosted by Osaka, following the successful 1970 event that drew a then-record 64 million visitors. Organizers now aim to attract more than 28 million visitors before the Expo closes on October 13. — Agencies