President Dissanayake Kicks Off Japan Visit at EXPO 2025
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake of Sri Lanka began his official three-day visit to Japan on September 27, 2025, by attending the Sri Lanka Day celebrations at EXPO 2025 in Osaka. Arriving at Kansai International Airport, President Dissanayake's participation as the Chief Guest marked his first engagement in Japan, underscoring the importance of bilateral relations and global engagement for Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka Showcases Rich Heritage and Future Vision
The Sri Lanka Day festivities were a vibrant display of the nation's cultural identity, jointly organized by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau and the Sri Lankan Embassy in Japan. The event featured a variety of cultural performances that captivated both Japanese and international visitors. President Dissanayake toured both the Sri Lanka and Japan exhibition pavilions at the Expo.
During his address, President Dissanayake highlighted that EXPO 2025 serves as a crucial global platform for Sri Lanka to articulate its vision for a prosperous future, rooted in its culture, innovation, and human values. He emphasized the enduring friendship between Japan and Sri Lanka, noting Japan's consistent support during challenging times and its role in celebrating successes.
The Sri Lanka Pavilion, located in Commons-A, showcases a diverse range of the country's offerings, including:
- Traditional culture and heritage
- Exquisite gems
- World-renowned Ceylon tea
- Spices and coconut-based products
- Ayurveda and handicrafts
- Opportunities in ICT, skilled employment, and investment
The pavilion's specific theme, 'Sustainable Management of Marine Resources,' reflects Sri Lanka's commitment to a nature-positive future.
EXPO 2025 Osaka: A Global Gathering for Future Society
EXPO 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan, which commenced on April 13, 2025, and will run until October 13, 2025, is hosted on Yumeshima Island in Osaka. The exposition's overarching theme is 'Designing Future Society for Our Lives,' with sub-themes focusing on 'Saving Lives,' 'Empowering Lives,' and 'Connecting Lives.' With an expected 28.2 million visitors and participation from 158 countries and 7 international organizations, the Expo aims to foster global exchange and dialogue on creating a better future.
Broader Diplomatic Agenda in Japan
Beyond the Expo, President Dissanayake's official visit includes a series of high-level engagements. He is scheduled to meet with Emperor Naruhito and hold bilateral discussions with key Japanese leaders, including Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, the Minister of Defence, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry. The President is also slated to attend a Sri Lanka Investment Forum in Tokyo and meet with the Sri Lankan community residing in Japan. He is accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism Vijitha Herath and other senior officials.
6 Comments
Fuerza
The focus on sustainable marine resources is a brilliant, forward-thinking initiative.
Manolo Noriega
Boosting tourism and trade through events like EXPO is a sound strategy for growth, however, the government must ensure these benefits trickle down to all segments of society, not just remain at the top.
Fuerza
This feels like a distraction from the urgent economic crisis. We need solutions, not expos.
Ongania
Another expensive photo op for the President. What about the real problems back home?
Fuerza
Just a PR stunt, no tangible benefits for ordinary citizens. Waste of taxpayer money.
ytkonos
It's positive to see the President engaging with world leaders and promoting the country, but many citizens are still waiting for tangible improvements in their daily lives to feel the impact of such trips.