Iran has withdrawn from the 2025 World Exposition in Osaka, along with El Salvador, Botswana, and South Africa, due to financial pressures. Iranian officials cited internal assessments for the decision, which Japan’s Foreign Ministry confirmed. The withdrawals are seen as setbacks for expo organizers, though Japan maintains confidence in the event’s scale and success.
On December 28, Iran, alongside three other nations, officially announced its withdrawal from the 2025 World Exposition scheduled to take place in Osaka, Japan. The decision was confirmed by both Japanese and Iranian officials amidst growing financial difficulties facing participating countries. Iranian government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani attributed the withdrawal to thorough internal evaluations regarding participation constraints. The specific reasons for Iran’s exit were not disclosed, prompting Japan’s Foreign Ministry to update its list of participants by removing Iran, El Salvador, Botswana, and South Africa.
The World Exposition, set to run from April 13 to October 13, 2025, aims to be one of the largest international gatherings post-pandemic. The recent withdrawals have raised concerns about the organization and preparation for the event. The Iranian government had initially planned to construct a simplified pavilion to be developed by Japanese organizers, which will now likely serve alternative purposes due to their departure. Previous similar withdrawals by nations like Mexico, Russia, and Greece have also been noted in recent years.
The withdrawal of Iran and three other nations signifies a challenge for the Expo 2025 organizers. Despite these setbacks, Japanese officials remain confident about the event’s success and its potential to attract 158 participating countries and regions. The circumstances surrounding Iran’s exit may reflect broader domestic concerns amidst international tensions, with the upcoming exposition serving as both an opportunity and challenge for participating nations.
Original Source: www.intellinews.com
