The Solomon Islands delegation has celebrated its National Day at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka–Kansai, Japan, with heartfelt tributes to Japan, moving cultural performances, and a strong message on ocean conservation.
Leading the celebrations, Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade Peter Shanel Agovaka praised Japan for successfully hosting the global event, which has brought together more than 160 countries and organisations under the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.”
“Solomon Islands is privileged to be part of this global gathering. The Expo not only allows us to showcase our unique culture and identity on the world stage but also provides valuable opportunities to engage in meaningful dialogue and exchange with other nations,” Agovaka said.
Delivering the Solomon Islands’ statement during the National Day celebration, Minister Agovaka extended warm greetings from the Government and people of Solomon Islands and thanked guests for joining the celebration. He also reaffirmed Solomon Islands’ commitment to strengthening ties with Japan and other Expo partners.
The minister shared the stage with Japan’s Parliamentary Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Ikuina Akiko, alongside officials from the Osaka Expo Committee and Osaka city. He also highlighted the enduring friendship between the two nations, recalling that Japan has been a steadfast partner in Solomon Islands’ development journey since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1978, just after independence.
“Japan has been a steadfast partner in Solomon Islands’ development journey, with major contributions,” Agovaka said.
Thousands of visitors visited the Solomon Islands booth, which was located in a pavilion shared with Pacific, Caribbean and African countries. The exhibit showcased locally made products, cultural artefacts and videos highlighting the nation’s tourism and heritage.
Later that evening, Minister of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration Harry Kuma commended officials and Japanese partners for their tireless efforts in ensuring Solomon Islands’ successful participation in the Expo.
Speaking at a dinner marking the conclusion of the National Day festivities, Kuma expressed heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated staff at the Solomon Islands Pavilion.
“I must recognise the remarkable sacrifices made by three dedicated staff members at the Solomon Islands Pavilion. Your commitment to remain far from home and your loved ones is both commendable and sincerely appreciated,” Kuma said.
He also extended appreciation to the Government and people of Japan for their invaluable support. “On behalf of the Government and people of Solomon Islands, I would like to express our profound gratitude to the Government and people of Japan for their invaluable support, which has greatly facilitated our participation,” he added.
Kuma also commended Mr Kitano of the Kitano Group of Companies, Commissioner General of the Solomon Islands, for his leadership and support at the Expo. The dinner, attended by guests and Solomon Islands students in Japan, featured cultural performances and reaffirmed the strong bonds between the two nations.
A highlight of the celebrations was the powerful performance by the Solomon Islands theatre group I Dig a Dream, which captivated audiences with its moving portrayal of life in coastal communities and a passionate plea for ocean conservation.
The show began with a depiction of a village family’s simple life before evolving into a dramatic call to action to protect the ocean from the impacts of climate change. The performance drew enthusiastic applause from the crowd and was described as one of the most inspiring cultural showcases at the Expo.
The I Dig a Dream group’s performance underscored the Solomon Islands’ message that culture and art can serve as powerful tools to raise awareness about global challenges.
The Solomon Islands official delegation included Minister Agovaka, Commerce Minister Kuma, Tourism and Culture Minister Hon. Choylin Yim Douglas, government officials and the performance group.
Through its participation, the Solomon Islands demonstrated pride in its culture, deep friendship with Japan and commitment to promoting sustainability and ocean protection on the world stage.
