After much deliberation, Israel has decided to participate in the prestigious international fair Expo Osaka 2025, an event held every five years. However, in contrast to Expo Dubai 2020, where Israel erected a massive pavilion costing 70 million shekels, drawing millions of visitors and considered one of the most successful in the history of Expo fairs, this time Israel will settle for a modest pavilion costing only 10 million shekels to save on expenses, Ynet has learned.
Israeli Ambassador to Japan Gilad Cohen sent a letter on Friday regarding the matter to the Japanese Expo Minister Hanako Jimi, informing her of Israel's official decision.
The decision was made by Foreign Minister Israel Katz, National Security Advisor Tzachi Hanegbi and Prime Minister's Office Director-General Yossi Shelley. The Prime Minister's Office and Foreign Ministry took upon themselves the task and dividing the budget between them, instead of pooling budgets from other ministries due to time constraints.
The government was supposed to approve Israel's participation in the fair during a Cabinet meeting on October 11. However, due to the outbreak of war, all processes for its approval were frozen.
The Japanese government notified Israel on several occasions that the final and absolute deadline was January 25. Ultimately, the final deadline was extended to March 31.
The Expo fair serves as a show window for countries around the world to present their achievements, and Israel, known as the "startup and high-tech nation," could not afford to miss it.
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Tsuji Kyoto, who visited Israel in late February, met with Katz and Hanegbi and reportedly requested that Israel participate. Notably, Japan barred Russia from participating in the fair in the wake of its invasion of Ukraine but sought Israel's participation.
The initial plan for a large (Type A) pavilion with an investment of 74 million shekels was abandoned due to budget constraints amid the war. Consequently, a decision was made to opt for a Type C pavilion, covering an area of 860 square feet, in a shared space with 80 other countries, including the Palestinians and developing countries, some of which are funded by the Japanese. Only 57 countries are permitted to construct a Type A pavilion.
According to Minister Katz, "Especially now, as we fight our just war against a murderous terror organization, it is of immense importance for the State of Israel to participate in this significant event in Japan. We will arrive with our heads held high and showcase the many achievements and contributions of the State of Israel to the world across various fields. Our participation will further strengthen the ties of friendship and cooperation between Israel and the international community."
Ambassador Cohen said, "We are pleased that our efforts have borne fruit and that Israel will be represented at the world's most important fair for promoting exports, innovation and investment in Israel."