[Title] Address by Prime Minister ISHIBA Shigeru at the Closing Ceremony of Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan

Today, in the presence of Your Imperial Highnesses, Crown Prince and Crown Princess Akishino, it is my honor, on behalf of the Government of Japan, to deliver an address on the occasion of the closing ceremony of Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan.

Since its opening under the theme of "Designing Future Society for Our Lives," the Osaka-Kansai Expo has been a great success, attracting over 25 million people from across Japan and the rest of the world.

We are able to celebrate this splendid closing ceremony today entirely thanks to the tireless efforts of the countless number of individuals, including those from the more than 160 participating countries and regions, international organizations, corporations and groups, as well as citizens and those from the governments of Osaka Prefecture and Osaka City. I express my sincere gratitude to you all. Thank you very much.

At the opening ceremony of the Expo half a year ago, I stated that: "Japan will once again provide a stage for people from around the world to engage in dialogue and exchange. From here, we will communicate an image of a "New Japan" to the rest of the world."

Throughout the 184-day period, the Expo truly served as a place for dream-like, exciting encounters, embodying the message of "Diverse Yet Unified," as symbolized by the Grand Roof (Ring).

Exhibitions and events at the various pavilions offered enjoyment for many visitors, while also serving as a catalyst for diverse discussions about "life" and "future society." The Expo showcased distinctive cultures, food and traditional industries from countries around the world and regions from across Japan. New technologies across various areas, such as AI, healthcare, mobility and robotics, were also demonstrated as part of the Osaka-Kansai Expo.

Prior to the opening, there were some concerns regarding the significance of the Expo and the progress of its preparations. However, through the efforts of those engaged in the event, we eventually overcame those challenges one by one.

Keeping in mind the concept of "Solidarity and tolerance, not division and confrontation" as a guiding principle, we successfully united the hearts of all those involved to create an excellent Expo that satisfied a great number of visitors. I believe this has marked the "dawn of a new Japan," which I hope has contributed to regional revitalization.

With heartfelt appreciation for leading the Expo to a success with its unique and charming character as the Expo's mascot, I have today presented Myaku-Myaku with a Prime Minister's Letter of Appreciation. Thank you, Myaku-Myaku.

I would like to conclude my address by once again expressing my sincere gratitude and profound respect to all those involved, including the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition, who have dedicated themselves tirelessly to the success of the Osaka-Kansai Expo up to the final day.

Thank you all very much.