The Portugal Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka was awarded a Certificate of Merit during the celebrations of Japan's National Day, marking the 66th birthday of Emperor Naruhito, at a ceremony held at the Embassy of Japan in Portugal on 19 February.
The distinction was presented by the Ambassador of Japan to Portugal, Nakagawa Tsutomu, in recognition of the Pavilion's “exceptional contribution to the promotion of mutual understanding and friendly relations between Japan and the Portuguese Republic.”
The ceremony was attended by Portugal's Commissioner-General Joana Gomes Cardoso, Pavilion Director Bernardo Amaral, Technical Director Lino Ramos, and artists Carminho and Máximo, who also performed at the Portugal Pavilion in Osaka, contributing to the celebration of Portuguese culture.
Portugal's participation attracted 2,355,616 visitors and received distinctions in three categories, including the award for Best Expo Theme – “Ocean, the Blue Dialogue” – highlighting Portugal's historic connection to the sea and its commitment to ocean protection, standing out among 158 participating countries.
Throughout the event, the Portugal Pavilion became a genuine meeting point between cultures, fostering dialogue, strengthening bilateral cooperation, and celebrating a historic relationship that has connected Portugal and Japan for more than four centuries. Receiving this distinction after the close of the Expo underscores the lasting impact of Portugal's presence in Osaka and reaffirms Portugal's role as a trusted, innovative and outward-looking partner on the global stage.
