Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai is set to open its doors, raising crucial questions about whether it can convey a message capable of healing the world's deepening conflicts and divisions.

In areas like Ukraine and the Palestinian territory of Gaza, vast numbers of civilians continue to lose their lives. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump's high-tariff policies have significantly shaken the global order.

Precisely because of these facts, the Expo's guiding philosophy holds greater importance than ever. The central theme is to cherish "life" and carry it forward for future generations.

The Expo also advocates contributions toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the United Nations for building a sustainable society. A clear example of this commitment is the Women's Pavilion, which specifically highlights women's roles in moving toward a more equitable society.

Yet, ongoing global conditions cast long shadows. Russia, engaged in its continuing invasion of Ukraine, is not participating. Despite this absence, various peace-oriented events are planned for the duration of the Expo through October.

Meanwhile, visitor safety remains a pressing issue. During a recent three-day venue rehearsal with some 98,000 participants, restrictions on the flow of people were implemented at the nearest train station to alleviate congestion at Expo site entry gates. However, that meant the station itself was overflowing, revealing significant risks of crowd-related accidents.

Moreover, concerns have arisen regarding methane gas emissions from underground waste deposits on Yumeshima, the reclaimed artificial island in the city of Osaka's Konohana Ward where the Expo venue was built. Despite measures implemented after an explosion there in March last year, potentially explosive concentrations of gas were recently detected within a maintenance hole, underscoring the lingering risks.

Preparedness for disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons cannot be overlooked either. Yumeshima is connected to the mainland via only two routes -- a bridge and a tunnel. Should both become impassable, visitors could become stranded on the island.

It is imperative for the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition, along with Osaka Prefecture, the city of Osaka and the central government, to thoroughly plan and implement safeguards for visitor safety, factoring in every possible scenario.

Costs involving venue construction and operations have skyrocketed well beyond initial projections. Yet, public enthusiasm has so far been lukewarm. Although around 10 million advance tickets have been sold, this is only about 70% of the target. The burden of any financial losses must not ultimately fall upon citizens.

In this current era of rapid advances in digital technology and growing computerization, skeptics argue against relying on massive events to stimulate the economy. The Expo must serve as an opportunity for reaffirming the core values of coexistence and harmony among humankind.