The UK’s Culture Secretary delivered a speech at the UK National Day celebration at the World Expo Osaka 2025, highlighting the strong bilateral relationship between the UK and Japan. The Secretary extended a warm welcome to Her Imperial Highness Princess Akiko of Mikasa and former Prime Minister Kishida, emphasizing the significance of their friendship.
UK-Japan Partnership:
– Common Values: The UK and Japan share common values, a shared view of the world, and close people-to-people links, making their partnership stronger than ever.
– Collaboration: The two countries are working together on various initiatives, including security, economic growth, and tackling global challenges.
– Hiroshima Accord: The 2023 Hiroshima Accord marked a significant step-up in collaboration between the UK and Japan, with both countries committed to building on this partnership.
Cultural Exchange:
– *National Ballet of Japan*: The National Ballet of Japan will make their European debut at the Royal Opera House in London, showcasing the power of UK-Japanese collaboration in the arts.
– *Musubi Initiativ: The Culture Secretary launched Musubi, a flagship initiative to foster meaningful people-to-people connections between the UK and Japan, including scholarships, talent development, and leadership programs.
Initiatives and Partnerships:
– Scholarships: A new Musubi Scholarship with University College London and a Youth Offshore Wind Scholarship Programme with SSE Pacifico will support young talent in the UK and Japan.
– Leadership Development: The Robert Walters career development program will help young people reach their full potential, while Liverpool Football Club’s International Academy in Kawasaki will develop young players and build leadership qualities.
– Female Leadership: The UK and Japan will host an event promoting female leadership in business, building on their agreement to include a chapter on women’s economic empowerment.
Musubi Friendship Ambassador:
– Hello Kitty: Sanrio’s Hello Kitty has been appointed as the Musubi Friendship Ambassador, symbolizing the friendship and partnership between the UK and Japan.
Conclusion:
– Gratitude: The Culture Secretary expressed gratitude to key sponsors and contributors, including AstraZeneca, Aston Martin, and the BBC, who have supported the UK’s participation in the World Expo.
– Future Collaboration: The Secretary emphasized that the UK-Japan partnership will continue to flourish, with many opportunities for collaboration and mutual benefit in the years to come.
