Dubai: A number of workshops discussing the impact of the World Expo 2020 kicked off at the International Planning Meeting (IPM), organised by Expo 2020 Dubai, at Emirates Towers on Monday.
The IPM brought together representatives of nations from around the world, including government and diplomatic officials, and highlighted the benefits of participating in the World Expo.
The first session was inaugurated by Reem Ebrahim Al Hashemi, Minister of State for International Cooperation and director-general of Dubai Expo Bureau 2020.
Al Hashemi welcomed the guests who came from countries that will participate in World Expo 2020. She briefed guests about approved plans and strategies for the Expo pavilions.
Speaking at a separate session, Vicente Loscertales, secretary-general of the Bureau of International Expositions, praised the plans and strategies laid out by Dubai. He expressed his belief that World Expo 2020 will witness success in terms of participating countries, as well as visitors that are expected to exceed 20 million.
Loscertales expressed his admiration about the site of the event, which is 50km away from downtown Dubai, adding that the site will be accessible for transport for visitors and movement of logistics.
Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, who was also present at the event, welcomed the guests and expressed his satisfaction at the gathering. He praised the efforts of Expo 2020 Dubai and Expo 2020 Dubai Higher Committee, whose preparations will be culminated with a huge global success, come 2020.