A Bridge Through Time: Rashid Al Nuaimi’s Return to Osaka and the UAE Pavilion at Expo 2025
OSAKA, Japan — In an event laden with historical significance, Rashid Al Nuaimi, the former Foreign Minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the esteemed Commissioner General of the UAE Pavilion at Expo 1970 in Osaka, found himself back in the vibrant city where the UAE first showcased its presence on the global stage over fifty years ago. This symbolic homecoming coincides with the UAE’s participation in Expo 2025, heralding a continuation of the nation’s commitment to fostering international dialogue and collaboration.
Upon his arrival, Al Nuaimi was warmly welcomed by Shihab Al Faheem, the UAE’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Japan, who currently serves as Commissioner General of the UAE Pavilion at the forthcoming exposition. The meeting was not merely ceremonial; it represented a narrative woven into the fabric of diplomatic and cultural relations between the UAE and Japan.
During Al Nuaimi’s visit to the Pavilion, aptly themed “Earth to Ether,” he was immersed in a multisensory experience that elegantly chronicled the evolution of the UAE—from its rich cultural heritage to its pioneering advancements in sectors such as space exploration, healthcare, and sustainable technology. This narrative, told through cutting-edge presentations, reflects the UAE’s aspirations on a global platform, breaking new ground in both storytelling and international representation.
The Pavilion also features the enthusiastic participation of 46 Youth Ambassadors, drawn from a competitive recruitment process. This diverse group consists of 24 Emiratis, 20 Japanese, and two Japanese-speaking residents, all tasked with acting as cultural liaisons between the UAE’s message and Expo attendees. Al Nuaimi engaged with these young representatives, emphasizing their integral role in bridging cultural narratives and fostering understanding between the two nations.
Reflecting on the importance of such expos, Al Nuaimi remarked, “Expo ’70 was a remarkable opportunity to showcase what we had, to demonstrate our resilience in working towards the future… It mirrored the vision and boundless ambition of our Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed.” His words reverberated with a sense of nostalgia and a confident look towards the future, as he noted how relationships cultivated over the past 55 years have only deepened, contributing to rich mutual understanding and cooperation.
The UAE’s debut at Expo 1970 was pivotal. It marked the nation’s first foray into international representation, serving as a lens through which the world viewed a burgeoning nation eager to carve its identity. Al Nuaimi’s return to Osaka not only symbolizes a journey completed but also a legacy built upon successive generations of leadership, innovation, and cultural exchange.
The design of the UAE Pavilion at Expo 2025 draws inspiration from one of the nation’s most cherished symbols: the date palm tree. This architectural marvel creatively reinterprets traditional Emirati areesh design, utilizing agricultural palm waste harmoniously integrated with exquisite Japanese craftsmanship. The pavilion features an awe-inspiring oasis characterized by 90 towering columns made from date palm rachis, some reaching heights of up to 16 meters, encapsulating the spirit of sustainability and cultural reverence.
As the UAE prepares for Expo 2025, it stands on the shoulders of its history, ready to showcase a holistic narrative that represents not only its achievements but also its aspirations in a rapidly changing world. The pavilion aims to be more than just a physical structure; it serves as a cultural ambassador, encapsulating the UAE’s values and vision while inviting reciprocal exchange from global visitors.
In conclusion, Rashid Al Nuaimi’s visit to the UAE Pavilion in Expo 2025 is a poignant reminder of the enduring ties between the UAE and Japan, underlining a shared commitment to progress, cultural understanding, and mutual respect. As both nations look to the future, they reaffirm their dedication to collaboration and innovation, continuously nurturing the bonds that have flourished over the decades.
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