PNG sets sights on Dubai

THE country’s participation in the Dubai Exposition 2020, was officially launched yesterday in Port Moresby.
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Patrick Pruaitch said it was a great demonstration of will and ambition as a nation to change, adapt and prosper.
“We can be able to use this global platform to tell PNG’s unique story and capture the interest of imagination of visitors showing the change and progress and unique challenges as a nation,” he said.
Pruaitch said PNG signed the participation contract on Aug 7, 2018 under the O’Neill government when they accepted the invitation by the president and prime minister and ruler of the Emirate of Dubai in Aug 2016.
“The expo will be held between Oct 20, 2020, and April 10, 2021,” he said.
“It will focus on development aspects and allows for countries to share knowledge, ideas and opportunities in trade and investment, culture, science and technology and mobility.”
Pruaitch said more than 200 international participants, including 192 countries, are expected to participate.
“The global mega event will last for six months and is expected to attract millions of visitors from around the globe, who will explore and discover pavilions, exhibits and cultural events staged by hundreds of participants, including nations, international organisations and businesses.”
Pruaitch said the occasion was made possible through the efforts of the National Expo Coordination team, led by the Foreign Affairs and International Trade Department and the departments of Prime Minister and National Executive Council, Commerce and Industry, National Planning and Monitoring, Finance, Treasury and Justice and Attorney General.
Meanwhile, Pruaitch urged all relevant state agencies and private sector organisations to get on board and provide necessary financial and technical support to the committee to build resources and capacity to participate effectively and meaningfully in the international event.