Iran has withdrawn from the 2025 World Expo in Osaka due to financial pressures, joining El Salvador, Botswana, and South Africa. The Japanese Foreign Ministry has updated its participation list accordingly. Despite this setback, the event is expected to attract 158 countries. The withdrawal may reflect both financial constraints and geopolitical considerations surrounding Iran.
Iran has officially withdrawn from the Osaka 2025 World Expo, a decision confirmed by officials from both Japan and Iran on December 28. This development comes amid increasing financial burdens faced by various participating nations. Iranian government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani cited comprehensive internal evaluations regarding participation restrictions as the rationale behind the withdrawal.
The announcement made on Iran’s state-run Mehr news agency did not provide specific details regarding the limitations. Following this, the Japanese Foreign Ministry updated its list of participants, now excluding Iran alongside El Salvador, Botswana, and South Africa. Initially, Iran planned to construct a simplified Type X pavilion, which will likely be converted into a rest area or additional exhibition space as a result of this withdrawal.
Despite this setback, Japanese officials assert that the exposition will continue as one of the largest international events in the post-pandemic era. A Japan-based international organizer remarked critically, stating that the Expo has faced numerous challenges in its development. They noted that the current situation in Syria could have influenced Iran’s decision, emphasizing that with various crises surrounding the nation, it may be prioritizing domestic issues over international engagements.
The 2025 World Expo is set to take place from April 13 to October 13, 2025, in Osaka, Japan. This international event is poised to showcase numerous countries and their innovations. However, several nations have been facing financial strains, prompting some to reevaluate their participation in such costly international exhibitions. Iran’s withdrawal, alongside three other countries, highlights the growing challenge for countries to balance international commitments with domestic responsibilities. The impact of global political situations and economic pressures has raised questions about the overall participation capacity for the expo, which aims to host 158 countries after the recent withdrawals.
The withdrawal of Iran and three other countries from the 2025 Osaka World Expo signals heightened financial challenges faced by participating nations. Although Japan remains optimistic about the event’s success, the implications of geopolitical issues and internal assessments continue to influence participation decisions. This situation underscores the importance of adapting to both domestic needs and international commitments amidst global uncertainties.
Original Source: www.intellinews.com
