Approximately 50 government officials, corporate representatives, and academic researchers convened in Tokyo on Tuesday to participate in a dialogue concerning the expansion of bilateral cooperation between Japan and Saudi Arabia. The proceedings centered on Saudi Vision 2030 and the Riyadh Expo 2030.
Event Co-Organizers and Attendees
The event was co-organized by Uhuru Inc., a Japanese technology firm currently broadening its engagement with Saudi Arabia, and the Professional University of Information and Management for Innovation. Attendees from the public, private, and academic sectors exchanged perspectives on strengthening Japan–Saudi relations as the Kingdom progresses with its economic transformation.
METI Official Highlights Diversification Beyond Energy
Goto Sato, an official from the Middle East and Africa Division at Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), provided an overview of the current state of Japan–Saudi relations. He elaborated on how cooperation under the framework of Saudi Vision 2030 is diversifying beyond the energy sector to encompass artificial intelligence, digital technology, healthcare, tourism, entertainment, and infrastructure.
Mr. Sato stated that the Riyadh Expo 2030 offers a significant opportunity for Japan to contribute its technological capabilities, innovation, and operational expertise while supporting the economic diversification of Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, he observed that world expositions have transitioned from mere exhibitions into platforms for business matching, investment, and international partnerships, thereby generating new prospects for both governmental and private entities.
Insights from Expo 2025 Osaka Experience
Will Inagaki, who has collaborated with the Saudi Arabia Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, presented practical insights derived from his professional experience with Saudi partners. He provided an overview of the transformation of Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030, highlighting major initiatives such as NEOM, the Kingdom’s flagship smart-city project on the Red Sea; Qiddiya, a large-scale entertainment and tourism development near Riyadh; and preparations for the Riyadh Expo 2030.
He noted that these projects exemplify Saudi Arabia’s commitment to diversifying its economy beyond oil while fostering growth in tourism, technology, sports, and international commerce. Drawing upon his experience at the Osaka Expo, Mr. Inagaki emphasized that successful collaboration with Saudi Arabia necessitates an appreciation of local culture, values, and business practices, rather than reliance upon preconceived notions. He encouraged participants to approach such partnerships with an open perspective, advising that one should not utilize their own conventional wisdom as the sole metric for engagement.
Networking and Future Partnerships
The event concluded with a panel discussion and a networking session, which afforded participants the opportunity to exchange ideas and explore potential future partnerships between Japan and Saudi Arabia.
