Translation Updated - Minister Muto Meets with BIE Secretary General Kerkentzes, Confirms Cooperation

Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Yojo Muto met with Dimitri Kerkentzes, Secretary General of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), on September 8, 2025, and agreed to continue close cooperation toward the success of the Osaka-Kansai Expo. During the meeting, Minister Muto introduced that since the opening of the Osaka-Kansai Expo, daily operations have been conducted with the safety and security of visitors as the top priority. He also requested continued cooperation and support from Secretary General Kerkentzes to ensure the Expo concludes successfully. Secretary General Kerkentzes highly evaluated the operational status of the Expo since its opening and expressed gratitude for the strong support from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. Furthermore, active discussions were held on how to inherit and carry forward the achievements of the Expo. Both parties confirmed their commitment to continuing close cooperation from a long-term perspective, looking beyond the closure of the Expo. This meeting held significant importance for the success of the Osaka-Kansai Expo and the inheritance of its achievements for the future.