As many as 88 countries as well as international and regional organisations have already confirmed their participation in the Expo 2023 Doha, being held from October 2, 2023 to March 28, 2024, a top official disclosed on Sunday.
Speaking to Gulf Times on the sidelines of the meeting of commissioner generals from the participating countries, HE Bader al-Dafa, commissioner general, Expo 2023 Doha, said that Qatar is all set to host one of the biggest global events.
“So far we have received confirmation of participation in the expo from 88 countries and international and regional organisations. This is by far a good number for a country that is hosting the expo in a desert climate such as Qatar as well as the neigbouring countries. We expect around 3mn visitors during the six months,” said, al-Dafa.
As for the expo and the related activities al-Dafa said that expo focuses on four main aspects. “ We look at exchange of ideas in four basic areas: innovation, technology, education and climate change. Climate change is a reality and affecting several countries. We face shortage of water and food. Investment in agriculture is lagging behind the demand for food. We see famine and people are hungry in some parts of the world,” he explained.
The official noted that industrialist countries have made a commitment of $100bn to support less developed countries but not even 20% of this money has been realised so far.
“I attended a summit of African countries a few days ago where several African countries have been taking about it. This has to be a win-win situation. You demand certain conditions from less developed countries but you are not supporting them with proper means and tools. We all need to care about our planet,” he continued.
The official also said that a breakthrough is happening in agriculture through the use of innovative technologies, citing the example of Qatar.
“I think we are already seeing a breakthrough using technology, when it comes agriculture. Qatar is nearly self-sufficient in some varieties of vegetables. This is the first time we see several fruits grown in Qatar. Most of these fruits are grown below the temperature of 24 degree Celsius but with several innovations, we are producing them in Qatar and with great quality. The dairy products made in Qatar are as good as anything imported,” he highlighted.
Al-Dafa said that there is also an aspect of social and cultural exchange in the upcoming expo. he noted: "We have dances, music and several entertainment programmes from different parts of the world. There will also be food from various countries available at the expo. It will be a social and cultural exchange with a mini world at the expo.”
The official pointed out that Expo 2023 Doha will lead by example, integrating sustainability into its operations and infrastructure. “Expo’s pavilions will showcase the latest technologies in horticulture, agriculture and sustainability. We will also invite the visitors to learn more about them through interactive showcases and exhibitions. We will be using sustainable materials, saving energy and resources,” added, al-Dafa.
HE Bader al-Dafa
