The Osaka World Expo 2025 has officially concluded, marking an exciting period of international exchange, scientific discovery, and collaboration. The event provided a unique stage for nations to showcase how they are addressing the most pressing global challenges, from sustainability and digital innovation to inclusivity and resilience.
Under the theme Nurturing Tomorrow, the EU transformed its Pavilion into a hub of discovery, bringing research, science, and innovation to life through interactive exhibits and engaging activities.
The Directorate-General for Research & Innovation (DG RTD), together with Executive Agencies REA, ERCEA, and CINEA, highlighted EU-funded projects and Horizon Europe missions that demonstrate Europe’s scientific leadership and commitment to tackling global challenges. From digital and innovative technologies — such as the SMURF robot, equipped with video and audio sensors, which helps locate people trapped under rubble after earthquakes and other natural disasters - to Horizon Europe Mission-driven projects, including Mission Restore our Ocean and Waters, Mission Adaptation to Climate Change, and Mission Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities, the EU showcased solutions delivering tangible benefits for people and the planet.
International cooperation in R&I was a key focus, with workshops connecting researchers, students, and experts from Europe and Japan. Highlights included the 2024 EU Contest for Young Scientists (EUCYS) winners, who exchanged ideas with Japanese young researchers. EU Cancer Mission co-hosted a workshop with the Japan National Cancer Centre, bringing experts together to discuss policy and share experiences from cancer survivors. These sessions also fostered promising discussions with the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED).
Interactive experiences, such as OD-EUROPA’s “nose-on” lectures and smellwalks, complemented the scientific showcases, engaging visitors and experts alike. Horizon Europe funding opportunities, including MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships and Doctoral Networks, strengthened partnerships and laid the groundwork for future joint projects.
The visit of Ekaterina Zaharieva, European Commissioner for Startups, Research, and Innovation, reinforced EU’s commitment to global research collaboration and innovation-driven impact. Her presence highlighted how science and innovation can build bridges, foster partnerships, and deliver tangible benefits for people and the planet.
During the visit, Commissioner Zaharieva and Minoru Kiuchi, Japanese State Minister for Science and Technology Policy, agreed on the shared importance of R&I for tackling global challenges and driving competitiveness and committed to conclude negotiations on the association to Horizon Europe in 2025.
With its presence at Expo 2025 Osaka, the EU and the R&I family demonstrated its scientific excellence in action, leaving a legacy of knowledge, innovation, and international cooperation with Japan and the world.
More information
The EU and Japan committed to conclude negotiations on the association to Horizon Europe in 2025
Research and innovation highlighted at the EU pavilion at the World EXPO in Osaka
International cooperation with Japan in research and innovation
Details
- Publication date
- 13 October 2025
- Author
- Directorate-General for Research and Innovation