The organizer of the 2025 World Exposition in Osaka has begun a meeting with participating countries and organizations.
The organizer aims to accelerate preparations by explaining support measures, as a number of countries are behind schedule in building their pavilions.
Around 150 countries and regions, along with eight international organizations, are planning to participate in the expo. Their representatives are attending a two-day meeting that started in Osaka on Tuesday.
Secretary General of the Bureau International des Expositions Dimitri Kerkentzes spoke at the start of the meeting.
He said the success of the expo "hinges on the proactive and sustained engagement" of the participants. He said they "must persevere in the realization of an expo that is not only inspiring, but that transforms lives."
At the meeting, the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition plans to explain the construction situation and how to proceed with interior work. It also intends to provide information about visas and accommodations for staff involved in preparations and operations of the expo.
Less than half of the countries that are planning to construct Type A pavilions, which they are to build on their own, have signed contracts with construction firms so far.
An official from Poland said the country wants to go ahead with Type A. But, she added, it is hard to find a construction company, so she is very worried about whether everything will be ready in time.