November 5, 2013 - Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird and the Honourable Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade, today announced that Canada will support Dubai’s bid for World Expo 2020—which would be the first expo ever to be held in the Middle East and in the Arab world.
“Canada believes it is time for the Middle East to host the world at a time of such hope and challenge in the region, and Dubai is best placed to bring together the most diverse group of peoples from around the world, to share ideas, aspirations, and concrete solutions for the future,” said Baird. “Canada’s support for Dubai reflects our commitment to the dynamism, hope and future of emerging economies in the region and beyond.”
In the short span of just 40 years, the United Arab Emirates has made tremendous gains noted Minister Fast.
“The United Arab Emirates has built a prosperous, open and secure society in roughly one generation and world-class and innovative Canadian businesses are eager to build stronger trade and investment ties with this strategic, priority market,” said Minister Fast. “By supporting Dubai Expo 2020, we’re showing our U.A.E. partners that Canada is committed to taking our relationship to new heights which will create new opportunities for people in both countries.”
Canada’s support for Dubai is based on the strength of Dubai’s proposals and on its theme of “connecting minds, creating the future.” Dubai is amongst a strong list of candidates—Ekaterinburg (Russia), Izmir (Turkey) and São Paulo (Brazil).
It is fitting that as the 21st century unfolds, a world exposition based on ideas, diversity and the knowledge economy, should be held at one of the most connected cities in the world. The U.A.E. is also home to over 100 major Canadian companies, and approximately 40,000 Canadians live and work there, contributing to its economic development.
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