GREEN×EXPO International Participants Meeting in Yokohama Heralds Flower Expo Countdown

(CNA, Yokohama, June 30) -- In anticipation of the 2027 International Horticultural Exposition (GREEN×EXPO 2027), the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) held its first International Participants Meeting (IPM) in Yokohama today. A total of 207 representatives from 77 countries and organizations attended, marking a significant milestone as all participating entities gathered for the first time before the expo's opening.

The IPM aims to inform participating countries and international organizations about the latest preparations for GREEN×EXPO 2027, including Japanese regulations, venue construction, logistics, operational management, and participation guidelines. Through workshops, individual consultations, and site inspections, the meeting also seeks to enhance communication and cooperation between the organizers and participating nations, assisting them in smoothly completing their exhibition preparations.

The opening ceremony was held in the morning, where Masato Kawamura, Secretary General of AIPH, welcomed representatives from around the world to Yokohama on behalf of the organizers. He stated that preparations are progressing steadily, and the number of participating countries and international organizations has increased from the initially set 70 to 75, demonstrating strong international support for the exposition.

Kawamura noted that this IPM is the first to be held in person, expressing hope that direct communication will deepen mutual understanding and cooperation. He emphasized that AIPH will provide full support to all countries in their exhibition preparations, working together to create a successful international event.

He added that GREEN×EXPO 2027, themed "Scenery of the Future for Happiness," aims not only to showcase flowers and green landscapes but also to leverage the power of plants and nature to contemplate climate change, biodiversity conservation, and a sustainable society with the world.

Yoshinobu Tsutsumi, Chairman of AIPH and Chairman of Keidanren, delivered a video message, stating that Yokohama, since its opening in 1859, has been an important gateway for Japan's international exchange and an international city that embraces diverse cultures and innovation. He expressed his honor in welcoming representatives from around the world to this city.

He pointed out that humanity is currently facing global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, urbanization, and international conflicts, and must collectively consider what kind of future to leave for the next generation. Flowers and green plants possess the vital power to heal hearts, unite communities, and nurture hope. GREEN×EXPO 2027 serves as a platform to share these values with the world and promote international cooperation.

Kenjiro Suzuki, Japan's Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, humorously referenced the recent World Cup match between Japan and Brazil, saying, "I had hoped to share the good news of Japan's victory in the World Cup knockout stage with you all, but unfortunately, that did not happen."

He continued, "However, plants offer us an important lesson: even plants of different varieties can coexist harmoniously and beautifully in the same garden." Therefore, he expressed his firm belief that the representatives from various countries and regions will, like the diverse plants in a garden, cooperate hand-in-hand in Yokohama to create a splendid and unforgettable international exposition.

Dimitri Kerkentzes, Secretary General of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE), stated that following Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan will once again host another important international exposition. He described it as a crucial platform for fostering international dialogue, exchanging innovative ideas, and deepening cooperation.

He highlighted that some building materials, structures, and even trees used in Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai will be reused in GREEN×EXPO 2027, demonstrating that world expos themselves can embody the principles of a circular economy and sustainable resource utilization. He expressed his confidence that with the participation of over 75 countries and international organizations, GREEN×EXPO 2027 will inspire millions of visitors to imagine and work together towards a future where humanity and nature coexist harmoniously and prosper together.

The 2027 International Horticultural Exposition will be held in Yokohama from March 19 to September 26, 2027, and is expected to attract over 10 million visitors. (Editor: Tian Ruihua) 1150630

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