World Expo 2025 Opens in Osaka Amid Challenges

The World Expo 2025 opened in Osaka, Japan, with the theme 'Designing Future Society for Our Lives,' featuring 160 countries and regions over a six-month period on Yumeshima island. Despite highlights like the Grand Ring, a Mars meteorite, and a beating artificial heart, the opening day faced logistical challenges with long lines exacerbated by rain. Organizers aim to attract 28.2 million visitors, but ticket sales have been slower than expected, and some pavilions were incomplete due to construction delays. Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba hopes the Expo will unite a world divided by global conflicts and economic tensions, with pavilions focusing on sustainability and cultural exchange. The event also draws political attention, with Ukrainian representatives highlighting resilience amid ongoing conflict, and Israel and Palestine presenting messages of peace. Operational issues, such as the lack of shelter and transportation challenges, require urgent attention to improve the visitor experience in the coming days.