Iran has withdrawn from the 2025 World Exposition in Osaka, alongside El Salvador, Botswana, and South Africa, due to financial pressures. This decision, announced by Iranian spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani, follows internal evaluations regarding participation conditions. Despite these withdrawals, participation numbers remain at 158 with the addition of Cape Verde. Concerns about the event’s organization and Iran’s domestic focus were raised amidst observations of financial constraints.
Iran has officially withdrawn from the 2025 World Exposition planned in Osaka, as confirmed by officials from both Japan and Iran on December 28. This decision, which also includes the withdrawals of El Salvador, Botswana, and South Africa, has been attributed to increasing financial pressures faced by participating nations. The announcement made by Iranian government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani followed extensive internal evaluations concerning the feasibility and limitations associated with their participation.
Despite the withdrawal, Japan’s Foreign Ministry has noted that the total count of participating countries and regions now stands at 158, bolstered by the new commitment from Cape Verde. The losses of these nations represent a challenge for expo organizers, although Japanese officials remain optimistic that the exposition will emerge as a prominent international event in the post-pandemic landscape. A Japan-based international organizer expressed concerns regarding the event’s progress, referring to it as a “walking disaster,” and speculated that Iran’s exit may be influenced by its domestic circumstances, particularly in light of recent international developments.
Further commentary suggested that Iran’s withdrawal might prevent the country from incurring substantial penalties for delays, thereby allowing it to refocus on pressing domestic budgetary needs. The event, which is scheduled to take place from April 13 to October 13, 2025, was initially expected to feature a Type X pavilion designed by Japanese organizers, which may now be repurposed for other uses as a result of the nation’s exit.
The 2025 World Exposition is set to take place in Osaka, Japan, marking a significant international event expected to draw participants from around the globe. The decision of several nations, including Iran, to withdraw highlights the financial strain many countries are experiencing as they contemplate participation in large-scale international gatherings amid economic uncertainties. This expo aims to foster international collaboration and showcases various nations’ innovations and cultures, making it a key platform for diplomatic and cultural exchange.
The withdrawal of Iran and three other nations from the 2025 World Exposition underscores the financial difficulties faced by multiple countries amidst evolving international contexts. While the event aims to achieve a significant turnout of participants, the loss of these nations signals potential challenges ahead for organizers. Nonetheless, Japan maintains its commitment to hosting a grand exposition, with ongoing preparations anticipated to continue despite the setbacks.
Original Source: www.intellinews.com
