Sri Lanka and AKD shine at Expo 2025 Osaka

At National Day ceremony, President Disanayake says SL faced continuous challenges; now rebuilding sustainable and inclusive economy Insists prosperity will ensure improved quality of life for every citizen Japan still recalls 1951 noble gesture by then-President JR

- NISTHAR CASSIM

SRI Lanka and President Anura Kumara Disanayake emerged as key highlights on Saturday at the Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, reminiscing the close friendship and renewing strong bilateral ties.

Drawing over 18 million people since its opening in mid-April, Expo 2025 saw the celebration of Sri Lanka Day on Saturday, with President Disanayake as the Chief Guest.

The Sri Lanka Pavilion located at Common Hall A showcased culture, tradition, gems, tea, spices, and tourism, among others. It has drawn thousands of visitors daily, mainly Japanese.

Japan's Minister in charge of the World Expo 2025 Ito Yoshitaka accompanied President Disanayake's visit to the Sri Lanka Pavilion.

Foreign Employment and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath, Japanese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Akio Isomata, Sri Lankan Ambassador in Japan Professor Pivithuru Janak Kumarasinghe, and senior officials from the Japanese Foreign Affairs Ministry also joined this occasion.

In his address at the Sri Lanka National Day celebrations, President Disanayake noted that Expo 2025 provides Sri Lanka with a global platform to share its vision for a bright future, grounded in its culture, innovation, and human values.

Highlighting the longstanding friendship between Japan and Sri Lanka, the President emphasised that Japan remains a close partner, offering support during difficult times and joining in the celebration of successes during prosperous periods.

The Sri Lanka Day celebrations were organised jointly by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) and the Sri Lankan Embassy in Japan. It showcased a variety of cultural performances reflecting the Sri Lankan identity. The cultural program attracted a large audience of both Japanese nationals and international visitors.