Osaka, Japan – The World Expo 2025 officially opened its doors to the public today (Sunday) on Osaka's artificial Yumeshima Island, launching a six-month global event with record participation from 158 countries and regions, including the State of Kuwait.

Key Highlights:

1. Theme & Venue:

   • "Designing Future Society for Our Lives"

   • Located on Osaka Bay's artificial island (through October 13)

   • Features the "Grand Ring" – the world's largest wooden architectural structure (2km circumference)

2. Notable Exhibits:

   • Lab-grown human heart model using iPS cells

   • Flying car prototypes

   • Martian rock samples

3. Imperial Presence:

   • Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako attended Saturday's official opening

   • 1,300 attendees including Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba

4. Kuwait Pavilion:

   • Two-story "Lighthouse of Tomorrow" design

   • Lower level: Cultural heritage showcase

   • Upper level: Futuristic aspirations

   • Interactive AI-powered exhibits

   • "The Pearl" transitional space honoring Kuwait's pearling history

Historical Context:
Kuwait remains one of only four Arab nations that participated in Japan's first Expo (Osaka 1970), which attracted 64 million visitors.

Imperial Address:
Emperor Naruhito expressed hope that the Expo would inspire global cooperation: "May this event encourage respect for all lifeforms and motivate collaborative efforts toward a sustainable future."

Organizers' Projections:

• 28.2 million expected visitors

• 60+ daily events across country pavilions