Excitement running high as Expo 2020's Country Pavilions gear up to welcome millions of visitors

DUBAI – On the eve of Expo 2020 Dubai opening its doors to the world, anticipation is reaching a crescendo among the 192 countries that will present their national pavilions at the biggest event ever held in the Arab world .

Representatives for the 192 countries – which are showcasing stunning architectural designs, fascinating cultural insights, the latest innovations and much more – have expressed excitement for their imminent participation in the six-month mega-event, which runs from 1 October 2021 to 31 March 2022.

Larry Ng, Commissioner General of the Singapore Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, said: “At the Singapore Pavilion, we want to join in the common goal of solving problems for creating a better future together. That’s why we have created one of the greenest, if not the greenest, pavilion in the Expo. We have over 80,000 plants here on a small area of 1,550 sqm, with vertical greenery, through cones made up of plants, rainforest and flowers. We also have hanging gardens. The whole focus is on integrating nature, people, architecture and technology as part of the overall sustainability focus. We are a zero-energy, zero-water pavilion – it has been designed to supply electricity to the whole pavilion for the next six months.”

Pavan Kapoor, Ambassador of India to the UAE, said: “The four-storey Indian pavilion – one of the largest pavilions at Expo 2020 – features an exterior mosaic of panels that will depict different themes as they rotate on their axis. Inside, visitors can learn about everything from the country’s yoga and wellness story to its burgeoning space-technology sector. We will have a permanent presence. So, there is a very significant aspect to the pavilion. Wonderful success stories of Indians in the UAE, initiatives and future plans will be showcased at the India Pavilion”.

Dietmar Schmitz, Commissioner General of the Germany Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, said: “Germany is proud to be a part of this event and its goal is to offer ideas, innovations and solutions for an optimistic tomorrow, by educating visitors with problems and challenges of our contemporary world. The design of the pavilion is inspired by a university campus and features innovative environmental ideas based on recyclable materials. The main idea of the pavilion is to educate the public through interactive games and involve them in several environmental decisions. The pavilion pays great attention to children, and is keen to provide interactive games to educate them and effectively communicate the desired messages.”

Manuel Salchli, Commissioner General of the Switzerland Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, said: “We are working on two layers. We are showing the general audience that, yes, we have a beautiful country – the emotions they can experience when crossing the fog, arriving at the mountains, taking a boat or a train to discover our country. And they learn more about the innovations coming from Switzerland, helping the world go in a sustainable direction. The second layer will be the strong Swiss participation in the Programme for People and Planet. It will be for a dedicated target audience, complemented by changing content in our exhibition space.”

Afzaal Mahmood, Ambassador of Pakistan to the UAE, said: “The Pakistan Pavilion will wow visitors with the 7,000-year-old history of Pakistan, and the country’s diversity, tourism experiences, natural and human resources, as well its potential for trade and investment opportunities. Under the theme ‘The Hidden Treasure’, the Pakistan Pavilion will offer an immersive and engaging hybrid art installation, introducing visitors to ‘the land of colours’, while showcasing its attractions and culture. People will see our natural beauty – we are rich in natural resources, including precious stones and hydrocarbons, and much of it remains untapped.”

Chevon Lim, Commissioner General of the Republic of Guyana Pavilion, said: “Guyana has participated in World Expos before, but never with its own pavilion, and for us this is an amazing opportunity. We are the lungs of the world and eco-tourism is what we want to promote here, as well as the endless possibilities Guyana has to offer. We are not only rich in biodiversity and opportunities, but in possibilities as well, and that is what we want our visitors to take away.”

Beatrix Karl, Commissioner General of the Austria Pavilion, said: “The wait has ended, and finally the efforts of thousands of individuals and companies from around the world through the last years can be seen and felt. Austria is proud to be a part of Expo 2020 Dubai, which is bringing the world together after the current pandemic has enforced restrictions isolating countries. Austria sees Expo 2020 Dubai as an opportunity to showcase the best of humanity in terms of innovations, solutions and inspiring ideas. It also provides a unique platform to address many open issues and reach important conclusions.”

Erik Linquier, Commissioner General for France at Expo 2020 Dubai and Chairman of Cofrex, said: “France warmly congratulates the organisers of Expo 2020 Dubai, who have succeeded, despite the challenges we have encountered, in staying the course. For six months, the gathering of all the countries of the world in one place is a symbol of hope to shape together a better future.”

Adrian Malinowski, Commissioner General of the Poland Pavilion, said: “Today marks a spectacular beginning of a new narrative about Poland on an international arena. The Poland Pavilion, which is a true architectural masterpiece illustrating the power of Polish design and creativity, will offer visitors a chance to explore the story of Poland’s economic success, our culture and technology, amazing nature, and first of all, our creativity and business acumen. It’s the culmination of four years of preparation and efforts by hundreds of people – extraordinary teams of project managers, creators, architects, engineers, artists and a number of institutional and commercial partners that worked with us.”

Luis Castro Henriques, Commissioner General of the Portugal Pavilion, said: “We are thrilled with the launch of Expo 2020 Dubai, which will be without doubt one of the most memorable global events of the decade, and certainly the biggest once since the pandemic. This is the perfect showcase to promote Portugal’s images across borders. ‘Portugal – A World in One Country’ is the theme of our participation. Portugal presents itself as a nation that once connected the world through the seas, sowing the seeds of globalisation, and remains to this day fully open to the world.”

Allen Chaizhunussov, Commissioner General of the Kazakhstan Pavilion, said: “Finally the world has gathered for the greatest World Expo ever! For Kazakhstan, participating in Expo 2020 Dubai is a unique opportunity to showcase our culture and technologies to the entire world.”

Sokol Nano, Commissioner General of the Albania Pavilion, said: “Embracing the subtheme of Mobility, Albania's participation in Expo 2020 Dubai aims to reinforce the important bridge between Albania and other countries and people. Also, we aim to boost the image of the country as a sustainable tourist destination. Additionally, we want Albania to be recognised as a key trade and investment partner in south-eastern Europe, by strengthening relations with the UAE and other participating countries, in connection with Expo programmes, and provide a platform for business and governmental cooperation.”

Levi Sap Nei Thang, Deputy Commissioner General of the Myanmar Pavilion, said: "Our hard work and perseverance over the past five years have finally paid off. I am proud, grateful, excited to be bringing Myanmar to the world’s biggest cultural gathering and making it a part of history. I would like to cordially invite visitors from all around the world to come and explore the rich culture, history, and people of our golden land at the Myanmar Pavilion."

Tony S Joudi, Bahamas Ambassador to the UAE and the State of Qatar, said: “The curtain is rising on the greatest show on Earth after six years of hard work that reflects the harmony, collaboration, persistence and resilience of the entire world. The Bahamas Pavillion celebrates our resilience as an island nation. Our first-floor exhibits promote business investments in green, blue and orange economies focusing on tourism, financial services, real estate and our natural resources.”

Sériane Kénéma, Deputy Commissioner General at the Republic of Guinea Pavilion, said: "Expo 2020 is a great platform to present our country to the whole world. For the first time at a World Expo, Guinea will have its own pavilion, which will enable us to share in our own words all the opportunities our country has to offer. Through our business and cultural programming we hope to foster new partnerships with a wide range of actors."

Ambassador Mary Mubi, Commissioner General of the Zimbabwe Pavilion, said: “The curtain has finally lifted here in Dubai after many months of preparation. Congratulations to the host government and organisers. The opening of Expo 2020 is a celebration of what can be achieved when people collaborate for a common good. Being at Expo 2020 is an opportunity for the Zimbabwean people, the government of Zimbabwe and the private sector to show the world that ‘Zimbabwe is the Land of Great Opportunities’ and we hope to attract visitors, traders and investors to partner with us as we journey towards our country’s Vision 2030 and greater prosperity.”

Justin McGowan, Commissioner General of the Australia Pavilion, said: “Expo 2020 Dubai is an unmissable opportunity for Australia to build on existing relationships and identify new trade and investment opportunities. Global collaboration is integral to the world’s economic and social recovery. Throughout the six-month-long event, the best of Australia will be on show to the world. We will be showcasing the strength of our economy and world-class capabilities through a combination of in-person and virtual events. As a nation, we are excited to be able to join our Emirati friends for this significant global event. Presenting an event on this scale is a truly collaborative undertaking.”

Robert Mukiza, Director General of the Uganda Investment Authority, said: "We are excited to be part of Expo 2020. Uganda has some of the best investor-leaning policies in the world, and we look forward to welcoming visitors to our pavilion this week to witness the signing of investment deals indicatively worth $1.5 billion. There will be a chance to meet with our investment executives as we showcase opportunities in agriculture, tourism, ICT, real estate and so much more throughout the duration of the Expo."

Nadia Fettah Alaoui, Commissioner General of the Morocco Pavilion, said: "Expo 2020 Dubai is a particularly significant event for the Kingdom of Morocco. I believe we are motivated to proclaim our faith in the future, with a responsible and proactive approach that is inspired by our own heritage. This is why our presence strategy evokes a very powerful theme: ‘Legacies for the future’. The goal is to tell the story of a Morocco that is proud of all of its origins, heritage, legacy, and values; the remarkable women and great men of our country; its natural resources and geographical location; all that has forged our identity."

Severi Keinälä, Commissioner General of the Finland Pavilion, said: “As we count down the hours to the official opening of Expo 2020 Dubai, we reflect on the past year, on how much countries globally have overcome and how we now come together to celebrate our resilience and look to the future in the spirit of cooperation. During the next six months, Finland and our 120 partner companies will share our expertise and know-how with the aim of showing how a combination of collaborative change, digital innovations and circular economy thinking can pave the way for the sustainable transition our collective ecosystems need to achieve.”

Daniel Schaer, Commissioner General of the Estonia Pavilion, said: “Opening Expo 2020 Dubai in the year of the UAE’s Golden Jubilee gives a clear message about the UAE’s role in the international arena. Estonia expects that Expo 2020 Dubai will be the global meeting place for the next six months to build new friendships, to discuss global challenges and to increase global trade. Despite being a small country, Estonia has achieved great success through digital innovation will allows us to proudly share our knowledge and expertise with the UAE and with other participating countries.”

Dr Tariq Al Gurg, Commissioner General of the Dubai Cares Pavilion and Chief Executive Officer and Vice-Chairman of Dubai Cares, said: “The opening of Expo 2020 Dubai signals an unprecedented window of opportunity for people from all walks of life, especially at a time when the world is going through a global disruption because of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a UAE-based global philanthropic organisation, Dubai Cares is extremely proud to be part of this mega-event that will exhibit our emirate and nation’s capabilities in bringing the world together for an extraordinary showcase of the power of human ingenuity, creativity and collaboration.”

Rufino Ndong Esono Nchama, Commissioner General of the Equatorial Guinea Pavilion, said, “For Equatorial Guinea, participating in Expo 2020 Dubai has not been easy because of the economic and health crisis. We are here, not only to respond to Expo 2020 Dubai's invitation, but also to participate actively in this world event, which offers the opportunity to work together. The Republic of Equatorial Guinea intends to promote the new brand of the country, comprehensively enhancing the five pillars marked by our government: tourism, investment, exports, culture and citizenship.”

Irakli Nadareishvili, Commissioner General of the Georgia Pavilion and Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, said: “Expo 2020 Dubai is a unique opportunity for Georgia to introduce to the millions of visitors Georgia’s unique culture, history and, of course, the opportunities that the country offers to the world in terms of tourism, investment, doing business and many other interesting features. The four chapters of the Georgia Pavilion will highlight winemaking; the Georgian alphabet; sustainable tourism (and its relation to Georgia’s natural landscape and historic monuments); and finally, the business opportunities that arise from these three facets of Georgian culture.”

Anthony Tabone, Commissioner General of the Malta Pavilion, said: “Expo will most certainly be a platform where cultures meet and networks are forged in areas such as heritage, trade, foreign direct investments and others. The Malta Pavilion is ready to showcase the tourism and investment opportunities that we offer across different sectors, including health, digitisation, sustainable investments and much more. We have excellent relations with the UAE and other Gulf countries, and for this reason will be embarking on a number of initiatives to foster further investments from this region.”

Pat Hennessy, Commissioner General of the Ireland Pavilion, said: “We are eagerly looking forward to welcoming visitors to the Irish Pavilion, where they will be assured of a warm Irish welcome. In keeping with our theme of ‘Ireland: Island of Inspiration’, we will be showcasing Irish creativity in its many forms. Our visitors can also look forward to enjoying a feast of Irish music from our resident Expo Players, a panel of talented young artists who will rotate during the six months. We also look forward to contributing to the discussions on some of the most important issues facing our global community, such as climate change, health, the special development goals and urban and rural development. We are also enormously excited to be cooperating with Expo in bringing to the stage the world-renowned Riverdance group, whose specially commissioned Riverdance at Expo will, I’m sure, be a huge attraction.”

Didi Sumedi, Commissioner General of Indonesia Pavilion, said: “Indonesia greatly appreciates the extraordinary efforts made by the United Arab Emirates as the host of Expo 2020. At Expo 2020 Dubai, Indonesia will showcase its myriad economic potential and investment opportunities to the world, empowered by Indonesia’s rich resources, dynamic business landscape and leading tourism destinations. We invite the world to experience the Indonesia Pavilion and witness how we are creating a better future, from Indonesia to the world.”

Lee Yoong Yoong, Director for Community Affairs of ASEAN Secretariat and ASEAN Commissioner General at Expo 2020, said: The ASEAN Secretariat is proud to join the international community in witnessing Expo 2020 Dubai opening its doors to the world. I would like to extend an earnest invitation to everyone to visit us and to appreciate about ASEAN, as a region and as an organisation. As the global focus turns to the post-COVID-19 pandemic recovery, Expo 2020 is an excellent opportunity for the world to build on existing relationships and inspire further collaboration.''

Myriam Cops, General Director of the Belgium Pavilion, said: “We are here to do exactly what Expo 2020 Dubai set out to accomplish: connect minds and create the future. We look forward to sharing our Belgian hospitality with people from around the world.”

Juan Pablo Cavelier, Commissioner General of the Colombia Pavilion, said: “Colombia’s presence at Expo 2020 is part of the country´s strategy to collaborate with international stakeholders and to promote our creativity, innovation, culture, and business opportunities. Colombia is the gateway to South America, and it is one of the growing economies in the region. Being at Expo is the perfect opportunity to network, create new markets and highlight Colombia’s potentials. Colombia is a welcoming and friendly country, and we bring that experience to this global stage.”

Victor Haruta, Ambassador of the Republic of Moldova to the UAE and General Commissioner of the Moldova Pavilion, said: “The Republic of Moldova has a rich cultural value that we can promote and present to the world, but the biggest treasure we have is our people. Expo 2020 Dubai will happen at the right time in the right place, as 2021 is a time to rebuild. 2020 has changed the world forever, and in far too many ways for the worse – but many opportunities exist today to help craft a better future for all. Our narrative and the whole theme of the pavilion is built around our main symbol, The Tree of Life. Every seed planted into our fertile soil grows into a miracle.”

Clayton Kimpton, Commissioner General of the New Zealand Pavilion, said: “As we embark on what will be a momentous six-month journey, we would like to extend our congratulations to the UAE leadership. The New Zealand Pavilion is proud to be part of the Expo 2020 Dubai story – one that will be a powerful catalyst for creating a brighter and better future. From our immersive pavilion experience and dining at Tiaki restaurant to a curated entertainment and cultural programme celebrating youth, Māori and Pasifika talent, we look forward to reconnecting New Zealand with the world and showcasing how we innovate to Care for People and Place.”

Jeoungyeol Yu, Commissioner General of the Republic of Korea Pavilion and President and CEO of KOTRA (Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency), said: “The Republic of Korea Pavilion's theme ‘Smart Korea, Moving the World to You’ portrays Korea's dedication to lead humanity to a future of ‘super-connectivity’. We will take visitors on a journey of mobility, helping them understand technological trends and Korean culture.”

HE Fatima Maada Bio, Commissioner General of the Sierra Leone Pavilion and First Lady of Sierra Leone, said: “I am privileged as Commissioner General to have this opportunity represent Sierra Leone as I witness the greatest show on Earth. As we showcase the very rich diverse culture and enviable beauty of Sierra Leone, it is also a great opportunity to connect with other countries, people and business entities over the next six months. I welcome everyone to Expo 2020 Dubai and invite to the beautiful paradise we call Sierra Leone.”

Tatjana Matić, Commissioner General of the Serbia Pavilion, said: “It is a great privilege for Serbia to be a part of the first World Expo held in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia and to present to potential partners from all over the world our technological innovations and achievements, tourism potential, economic and business opportunities, as well as our most valuable asset – talented people, artists, scientists and all those who contribute to the progress of humanity through their daily work.”

Yekaterina Pribytkova, Spokesperson for Russia Pavilion, said: “Russia is thrilled to see the official opening of Expo 2020 Dubai. This is a unique event and we are certain that [it] will exceed all the expectations and become one of the most spectacular shows in the world. Expo 2020 Dubai is extremely important to Russia as we believe it will strengthen and accelerate the relationship between Russia and UAE and become a starting point to the new mutual projects and collaborations between our countries."

Lorelei (XH) Liu, Director of the World Expo Museum Pavilion, said: “Expo 2020 Dubai is an ambitious, challenging and meaningful World Expo. Although the COVID-19 pandemic slows down the whole world, reduces exchanges and poses threat to mutual trust, Expo 2020 successfully brings the world together, offering a platform for multilateral dialogues and cooperation. The triumph of this global mega-event vividly interprets the Expo theme that only by connecting minds can we create a better future.”

Under the theme ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’, Expo 2020 is the biggest cultural gathering in the world. For 182 visually striking and emotionally inspiring days, more than 200 participants – including 192 nations, plus multilateral organisations, businesses and educational institutions, as well as millions of visitors – are creating the largest and most diverse World Expo ever.

© Press Release 2021