The Pakistan Pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka celebrated the country’s National Day with a lively showcase of cultural performances, dynamic fashion, and a strong emphasis on Pakistan’s economic and creative prospects. The multi-day festivities drew large crowds and highlighted the nation’s distinct identity during one of the world’s largest international exhibitions.
Leading the celebrations, Haroon Akhtar Khan, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister for Industries and Production, headed the Pakistani delegation alongside Abdul Hameed, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Japan and Section Commissioner General for the Expo. The delegation was warmly received by senior Japanese officials, including Hisayuki Fujii, State Minister for Foreign Affairs; Koji Haneda, Commissioner General; and Hiroyuki Ishige, Secretary General of the Japan Association for the 2025 World Expo.
The official National Day ceremony took place at the Ray Garden, where dignitaries gathered for a flag-raising ceremony and the playing of Pakistan’s national anthem. In his keynote address, Haroon Akhtar Khan highlighted Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and expanding industrial base. He underlined the country’s achievements under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, particularly in innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable economic growth. Khan emphasized the synergy between Pakistan’s traditions and modern industries, pointing out that the Pakistan Pavilion has already welcomed over one million visitors as it shares these developments with the global community.
Hisayuki Fujii extended his congratulations to the Pakistani people and praised the enduring friendship and cooperation between Japan and Pakistan. He noted the importance of continued cultural exchange and deepening bilateral ties.
The event featured a colorful performance by the Pakistan National Council of the Arts, with folk dances representing Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir. A standout segment, Taxila Odyssey, paid tribute to Pakistan’s ancient Buddhist heritage, spotlighting the country’s historic role in the transmission of Buddhist culture. Patriotic songs further energized the atmosphere, bringing the audience together in celebration.
The ceremony concluded with a unique fashion presentation by Japanese designer Yuna Hattori, whose brand KANON integrated reclaimed Japanese kimono fabrics with traditional Pakistani textiles. The collection showcased sustainable, one-of-a-kind garments symbolizing the fusion of both cultures. The National Day events at the Pakistan Pavilion underscored the country’s rich heritage and its forward-looking aspirations on an international stage.
