Antigua and Barbuda took centre stage at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Kansai on Friday as the nation celebrated its official National Day, showcasing its cultural richness, environmental leadership, and enduring spirit of resilience.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. E.P. Chet Greene, delivered the keynote address to formally open the day’s festivities, highlighting Antigua and Barbuda’s vibrant democracy, cultural heritage, and its commitment to sustainability.
“Antigua and Barbuda may be small in size, but our heart and ambitions are vast,” Greene told the gathering. “Our culture is a vibrant tapestry woven from African, European and Caribbean influences, reflected in our lively Carnival, the rhythmic beats of steel pan music, and the timeless tradition of games like warri.”
Greene also underscored the importance of Antigua and Barbuda’s long-standing ties with Japan. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1982, the two nations have worked closely on issues of sustainable development and technology exchange. He expressed gratitude for Japan’s contributions, particularly in areas such as seawater desalination and water resource management training.
“The relationship between Antigua and Barbuda and Japan is one of mutual respect and collaboration,” he said. “Japan’s support has been invaluable in addressing our vulnerabilities as a drought-prone nation.”
The country’s pavilion at Expo 2025, themed “Saving Lives,” reflects the Expo’s overarching vision of Designing Future Society for Our Lives. The exhibits spotlight Antigua and Barbuda’s environmental initiatives, including:
The Redonda Restoration Project, a biodiversity conservation success led by the Environmental Awareness Group.
The Coral Reef Restoration Project, focused on rehabilitating marine ecosystems in English Harbour.
Interactive cultural heritage displays, featuring jewellery, pottery, and ironwork crafted from sustainable materials.
Greene extended an invitation for visitors not only to experience Antigua and Barbuda at the Expo but also to explore the islands themselves, with their 365 beaches, UNESCO World Heritage Site at Nelson’s Dockyard, vibrant festivals, and renowned hospitality.
“Our pavilion showcases our dedication to environmental preservation, socio-cultural richness, and economic innovation,” Greene said. “Beyond this Expo, we invite you to experience the beauty of Antigua and Barbuda firsthand.”
The Minister also paid tribute to the collaborative efforts behind Antigua and Barbuda’s participation, thanking the Japanese government and Osaka officials, the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Commissioner General Javier Jacobs, the Environmental Awareness Group, the National Parks Authority, and the nation’s UK-based High Commissioner, H.E. Karen Mae Hill.
“As we celebrate Antigua and Barbuda National Day, let us remember that we are all connected by a shared dream — a future of peace, sustainability and mutual respect,” Greene concluded, before closing his address with the words, “Arigatou gozaimasu, and may God bless you all.”
Greene extended an invitation for visitors not only to experience Antigua and Barbuda at the Expo but also to explore the islands themselves, with their 365 beaches, UNESCO World Heritage Site at Nelson’s Dockyard, vibrant festivals, and renowned hospitality.
“Our pavilion showcases our dedication to environmental preservation, socio-cultural richness, and economic innovation,” Greene said. “Beyond this Expo, we invite you to experience the beauty of Antigua and Barbuda firsthand.”
The Minister also paid tribute to the collaborative efforts behind Antigua and Barbuda’s participation, thanking the Japanese government and Osaka officials, the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Commissioner General Javier Jacobs, the Environmental Awareness Group, the National Parks Authority, and the nation’s UK-based High Commissioner, H.E. Karen Mae Hill.
“As we celebrate Antigua and Barbuda National Day, let us remember that we are all connected by a shared dream — a future of peace, sustainability and mutual respect,” Greene concluded, before closing his address with the words, “Arigatou gozaimasu, and may God bless you all.”
