Romania Pavilion participated in NATO Days, held from August 1–12 at Expo 2025 Osaka, as part of the Peace, Human Security and Dignity Week. This initiative reflects NATO’s commitment to collective security and global dialogue, showcased at one of the world’s foremost platforms for culture and innovation.
At the opening event, Ovidiu Raetchi, Ambassador of Romania to Japan, speaking on behalf of the NATO Contact Point Embassies (CPE), and Hreinn Pálsson, Ambassador-Designate of Iceland to Japan, representing the Nordic Pavilion, addressed the audience, marking the start of a week dedicated to dialogue and cooperation. As a NATO Ally and NATO Contact Point Embassy in Japan, Romania plays a key role in supporting the Alliance’s presence at Expo 2025 Osaka.
Romania was represented at the event by Ioana Mureșan, Director of the Security Policy Directorate within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Speaking at the panel “Cyber and Hybrid Threats: Protecting Digital Frontlines,” she addressed the growing dangers posed by cyberattacks, disinformation and hybrid operations. She stressed that the Russian Federation remains the most serious threat to Euro-Atlantic security—not only through its illegal, unprovoked and unjustified war against Ukraine, but also via increasingly sophisticated hybrid campaigns targeting Allies, including cyberattacks and disinformation. The Romanian delegation also drew attention to major challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. In this context, Romania reaffirmed its strong support for deepening NATO–Japan cooperation in countering hybrid and cyber threats.
At the same event, Romania took part in the panel “NATO’s and the International Community’s Support to Ukraine,” reiterating its consistent support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. The session brought together Allies and partners to discuss coordinated responses to the security crisis triggered by Russia’s full-scale invasion. Romania highlighted its commitment to a rules-based international order and its comprehensive assistance to Ukraine, including facilitating the transit of refugees, establishing humanitarian corridors and hosting essential logistical hubs. As the EU and NATO member state with the longest border with Ukraine, Romania plays a key role in ensuring regional security and NATO’s collective defense.
The Romanian delegation also underscored the country’s long-term commitment to Ukraine, including its reconstruction—most recently reaffirmed during the official visit of Minister of Foreign Affairs Oana Țoiu to Ukraine (https://www.mae.ro/en/node/67178, https://www.mae.ro/en/node/67178). Romania also expressed appreciation for Japan’s active role in mobilizing international support for Ukraine, especially during its 2023 G7 Presidency, and for its significant financial and humanitarian contributions.
Background
With a tradition dating back to 1851, world expositions are premier global events that bring together countries from across the globe to showcase their cultures, technologies and visions for the future—promoting international cooperation and exchange. Although NATO is not an official participant at Expo 2025 Osaka, the Alliance is actively engaged through close cooperation with Allied nations that have national pavilions. This effort is coordinated by the Mission of Japan to NATO and is supported by Romania and Norway, in their capacity as NATO Contact Point Embassies in Japan.
Romania’s participation reflects its consistent commitment to NATO’s values. Throughout NATO Days, the events highlight the importance of multilateralism, scientific cooperation and technological innovation, including through initiatives such as NATO’s Science for Peace and Security Programme.