São Paulo – Expo 2020, the world expo slated to run from October 2020 to April 2021 in Dubai, UAE might be postponed by a year as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. The idea was put up for consideration during a virtual meeting of the Steering Committee this Monday (30), according to Expo 2020 press material.
A final decision can only be made by the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE)’s Executive Committee and General Assembly. The BIE Convention stipulates that dates can only be changed in case two thirds of member states agree by vote. The BIE is the World Expo governing body.
The exhibition said it will work on setting a new date. UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and Expo 2020 director general Reem Al Hashimy (pictured) said several countries have been significantly impacted by Covid-19 and have expressed the need to postpone.
“The global situation is fast-moving and it remains unpredictable,” she said, adding that her country has been consulting with “key UAE and international stakeholders to review the ongoing impact of Covid-19” on plans and preparations for Expo 2020 Dubai. “In the spirit of solidarity and unity, we supported the proposal to explore a one year postponement at today’s Steering Committee meeting,” she said.
Al Hashimy also said due BIE processes will be observed. BIE secretary-general Dimitri Kerkentzes claimed that today’s agreement is welcome. He also said “the UAE’s decision to support a one year postponement demonstrates pragmatism, openness, and commitment to delivering an Expo that lives up to our shared ambition.
Themed “Connecting Minds, Creating the Future,” Expo 2020 Dubai is expected to welcome 25 million people over a six-month period, with 70% coming in from abroad. Each of the expo’s 173 days day will feature 60 events showcasing the best of music, technology, creativity and culture. The World Expo is designed to be a meeting of the countries, cultures and economies of the world.
Translated by Gabriel Pomerancblum
