IT'S exactly one year to go until 'Northern Ireland day' at World Expo 2020 Dubai.
The region will be an integral part of the UK Pavilion at the rescheduled event that will start in Dubai on October 1 and run until the end of the following March.
The six-month long show will include a dedicated Northern Ireland showcase on February 16 2022.
The UK Pavilion theme ‘Innovating for a Shared Future’ will be a platform for Invest NI, the north's main universities, tourism partners and businesses to tell their story and showcase their world-class expertise to a global audience.
Economy minister Diane Dodds said: “Northern Ireland will be centre stage at the world’s largest live international event. As the world begins to recover from Covid, Expo 2020 Dubai will encourage international co-operation and collaboration at a time it is needed most.
“It is fitting that the countdown towards Expo 2020 coincides with Northern Ireland’s Centenary Year. Throughout our history we have earned reputation for innovation at the forefront of industry backed by a highly-skilled workforce. We are proud of this reputation and we intend to maintain it. As we move into our second century, this is the perfect opportunity to show the world what Northern Ireland has to offer.
“We are working closely with our colleagues in the Department for International Trade to ensure strong local representation throughout the entire six-month programme and capitalise as much as possible on Northern Ireland’s showcase day.
“Expo 2020 Dubai will also be a valuable opportunity to deepen our special relationship with the United Arab Emirates. Northern Ireland companies have made great strides in this market in recent years. Indeed, the UAE is a strong export partner with Northern Ireland companies exporting over £50 million of exports in the year to September 2020.”
The Minister added: “With over 192 nations represented, Expo 2020 Dubai represents a unique opportunity to build our global networks. We are all aware Covid has had a detrimental impact on global economies and importantly, on how people connect.
“Expo 2020 Dubai is an opportunity to deepen our bond with the UAE, pave the way for connections with other countries and showcase Northern Ireland on the world’s stage.”
Invest NI chief executive Kevin Holland said: “With one year to go until our showcase at Expo in Dubai, we are ramping up preparations to showcase the best of Northern Ireland to the world.
“Visitors to Expo 2020 Dubai will experience Northern Ireland’s world-class innovation, our strong entrepreneurial spirit and our excellent education in an incredible immersive experience. The mega-event will raise Northern Ireland’s profile and inspire visitors to learn more about Northern Ireland - it will be a fantastic way to experience our world renowned welcome, energy and creativity.”
Expo 2020 Dubai (www.investni.com/Expo2020Dubai) is the first World Expo to be held in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region.
The business programme includes investment forums, pitching sessions, inspirational talks and other key business events.
