Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister, Hon. James Marape, officially officiated the country’s National Day celebration at the 2025 World Expo in Osaka, Japan, where he highlighted the long-standing and robust bilateral partnership between Papua New Guinea and Japan—now spanning 51 years.
The National Day event, held at the Expo’s Grand Hall, is a key feature of Expo 2025, with each participating country granted a day to showcase its national identity and contributions to the global stage. Prime Minister Marape addressed an audience composed primarily of Japanese dignitaries, officials, and the general public.
The formal program began with opening remarks by Japan’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Fujii Hisayuki, followed by a performance of both countries’ national anthems by a local school choir.
In his keynote address, Prime Minister Marape underscored the significance of Papua New Guinea’s participation in the World Expo, describing it as both a celebration of innovation and an opportunity for cultural diplomacy.
“It is a profound honour for Papua New Guinea to be part of this global event that celebrates human progress in technology, innovation, and cross-cultural collaboration,” he said. “The Expo allows us to present not only our technological aspirations but also the richness of our cultural identity.”
He extended heartfelt gratitude to the Government and people of Japan for their successful hosting of Expo 2025 and for the warm hospitality extended to Papua New Guinea’s delegation.
“Under the theme Designing Future Society for Our Lives, Expo 2025 offers a vital platform for nations to share ideas, develop partnerships, and collectively imagine a more inclusive and sustainable future,” said Prime Minister Marape. “We are here to proudly share our story, our values, and our aspirations.”
He described the PNG National Pavilion as a powerful representation of the nation’s heritage, resilience, and potential:
“It tells the story of a resource-rich country with an emerging economy, diverse cultures, and a vibrant environment—positioned to make its mark in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.”
The Prime Minister reiterated Papua New Guinea’s openness to international engagement across sectors, including business, tourism, cultural exchange, and sustainable development.
He emphasized the historic relevance of this year’s Expo:
“This celebration comes at a milestone moment for our nation. We are commemorating the 50th Anniversary of our Independence on 16 September 2025, as well as 50 years of diplomatic relations with Japan—a partnership built on mutual respect, shared values, and enduring cooperation.”
Marape also noted the strategic importance of Expo 2025 as a launchpad for further bilateral and multilateral cooperation in areas such as green technology, sustainable development, trade and investment, special economic zones (SEZs), tourism, and innovation.
“Our government remains committed to building a resilient, inclusive, and diversified economy,” he said. “We are advancing our Special Economic Zones as engines of national growth, while prioritizing expansion in agriculture, fisheries, and energy.”
Following his address, the Prime Minister toured several national pavilions at the Expo site on Yumeshima Island, with a special visit to the PNG National Pavilion. He is scheduled to conclude his Osaka program by delivering remarks at an official reception in the evening.
Prime Minister Marape will continue his official visit to Japan in Tokyo on Tuesday, 22 July 2025, where he is expected to meet with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to further strengthen bilateral ties and explore new avenues of cooperation.