Osaka Expo pavilion celebrates 70 years of Japan-Saudi relations

Featuring more than 700 events and activities, the Saudi pavilion will aim to provide an immersive experience for visitors. (SPA)
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Updated 08 June 2025
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Osaka Expo pavilion celebrates 70 years of Japan-Saudi relations

OSAKA: Saudi Arabia’s pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka is celebrating the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Kingdom — the two countries first established their partnership on June 7, 1955.

“The relations go beyond a mere economic partnership to reflect the depth and diversity of our ties,” said Ghazi Faisal Binzagr, Saudi ambassador to Japan and the pavilion’s commissioner-general.

“Today, we build on the strength of the past and harness the momentum of the present to jointly shape a new vision for the future. With Expo 2025 taking place in Osaka and Saudi Arabia hosting Expo 2030 in Riyadh, our two countries stand at the forefront of global exchange, showcasing the latest innovations and sustainable technologies, and contributing to shaping an inclusive future for all.”

The Saudi Pavilion has hosted various business events and highlighted trade opportunities offered by Saudi Vision 2030, strengthening economic ties between the two countries. 

Additionally, it highlights the Kingdom’s role in bringing Japanese culture to the Middle East through local manga studios, whose works will be featured in August.

The pavilion aims to draw more Japanese tourists to Saudi Arabia, targeting 30,000 visitors annually before Expo 2030 Riyadh. 

Saudi Arabia’s participation in Expo 2025 Osaka is part of the Saudi-Japan Vision 2030 strategy, which includes more than 80 projects across industries including culture, food, media and entertainment, energy, and education.

The pavilion, which offers more than 700 diverse and engaging events such as daily shows and live performances, has attracted more than half a million visitors since it opened in April.


New filmmaking initiative in AlUla aims to boost Saudi creative talent

Updated 7 sec ago
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New filmmaking initiative in AlUla aims to boost Saudi creative talent

  • Efforts aim to support young talent, contribute to growth of Kingdom’s film sector

ALULA: Villa Hegra, in collaboration with Film AlUla, has launched a specialized filmmaking program to develop cinematic skills and support creative talent, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

The initiative reflects Villa Hegra’s commitment to strengthening cultural and cinematic activity while fostering an inspiring environment for content creators and film enthusiasts.

The program offers training courses and workshops covering all stages of film production, from scriptwriting and directing to cinematography, editing, and post-production.

These efforts aim to support young talent and contribute to the growth of the Kingdom’s film sector, the SPA added.

Villa Hegra also runs educational and interactive programs for children to develop their talents and enhance their creative abilities.

The programs include workshops that simplify scientific concepts and integrate them with modern artistic practices, creating a learning environment that encourages discovery and innovation.

They have attracted strong student participation across the governorate due to their hands-on, interactive approach, which enhances children’s thinking and creativity.

The initiatives are implemented in collaboration with French and Saudi institutions, reflecting cultural diversity and international partnerships while improving the quality of educational content for younger generations.

Villa Hegra is the first joint Saudi-French cultural foundation based in AlUla. Launched in October, it supports the region’s cultural scene by providing educational platforms that develop skills among Saudi children and youngsters, while strengthening AlUla’s presence on the international cultural stage.