Sachiko Yoshimura, head of Global Communications for Expo 2025 Osaka, has applauded the China Pavilion's role in enhancing Japan-China people-to-people connections and facilitating mutual business exchanges.
In an interview with China Global Television Network (CGTN) aired on Friday, Yoshimura noted that through this event, China and Japan could forge closer ties in culture, academia, research and commerce.
She said the Expo saw extraordinary engagement from Chinese media outlets.
"The Chinese media were [in] the most, largest numbers, I mean, to [in] the Expo's services. So we are so happy about [it] as well," Yoshimura said.
She highlighted the China Pavilion's diverse activities, emphasizing how the weekly exhibitions featuring different Chinese provinces, have made a profound impact on visitors.
"So that shows that the Chinese pavilion has showcased many of China in different ways. So maybe we do have information on maybe large cities, but also this was a great time to actually share our culture and also [to showcase other] provinces of China," said the official.
"Also, there were many academies coming as well. So there were exchanges, doing seminars. And so it was a very good chance for the Japanese -- and we have international businesses as well -- to actually enjoy ethnic talking about many people's opinions on the Chinese side and Japanese side. So there were all kinds of communication there, and also there were many business delegations coming as well," she added.
According to the official, although the Expo itself lasts only six months, its lasting impact matters more.
"So it was great for culture and actual exchanging people by people, and also there were many business opportunities for Japanese companies and Chinese companies working together,” she said.
Friday July 11 marks the China Pavilion Day of Expo 2025 Osaka. Since its opening, China Pavilion has hosted over 20 events showcasing Chinese cities and businesses, attracting more than 77,000 visitors -- including over 200 officials and notable guests, from 75 countries and regions.
Expo 2025 Osaka runs from April 13 to October 13.
China Pavilion boosts cultural, business ties with Japan: Osaka Expo official
Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Saturday China is willing to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance coordination in multilateral affairs, and advance the China-Lesotho strategic partnership.
Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when meeting with Lesotho Prime Minister Sam Matekane in the capital of Lesotho.
During the meeting, Wang congratulated Lesotho on the 60th anniversary of its independence this year, and spoke highly of Lesotho government's efforts to prioritize economic development and steer the African country onto a path of sustainable growth. Since the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in 2024, the two sides have advanced cooperation under the 10 partnership action plans unveiled at the summit, successfully implementing a number of key projects to effectively promote Lesotho's development and revitalization, Wang said.
China stands ready to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance coordination in multilateral affairs, and push for greater development of the China-Lesotho strategic partnership, he added.
Calling on the two sides to firmly support each other, Wang said that China will accelerate the implementation of its zero-tariff policy for African countries, including Lesotho, expand bilateral trade, investment and industrial cooperation, facilitate broader access of Lesotho's specialty products to the Chinese market, and continue to support Lesotho's national development.
China will continue to stand firmly with African countries, uphold justice for the Global South, including Lesotho, oppose unilateralism and acts of bullying, and work together to build a community with a shared future for humanity, Wang said.
On his part, Matekane said during the meeting that Lesotho cherishes its friendship with China and the strategic partnership between the two countries, and expressed gratitude for China's valuable support for the development of African countries, including Lesotho.
Lesotho firmly adheres to the one-China principle and resolutely supports China in safeguarding its core interests, he said, noting that his country stands ready to strengthen strategic mutual trust with China, expand people-to-people exchanges, jointly implement the outcomes of the FOCAC Beijing Summit, and deepen cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, manufacturing and energy.
Matekane stressed that China's zero-tariff policy for African products will inject new impetus into Lesotho's development. He also expressed Lesotho's willingness to strengthen solidarity and cooperation with China on multilateral platforms such as BRICS to jointly address global challenges.
On the same day, Wang also held talks with Lejone Mpotjoana, minister of foreign affairs and international relations of Lesotho.
China, Lesotho to strengthen exchanges, advance cooperation
China, Lesotho to strengthen exchanges, advance cooperation
