In a message addressed to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, President, James Michel has conveyed warmest congratulations to Dubai and its people on its successful bid to host the 2020 World Expo.

President Michel, stated that the people of Seychelles share in the excitement felt in Dubai and across the United Arab Emirates.

The President affirmed that Seychelles is pleased to have supported Dubai’s bid, and that the 2020 World Expo will undoubtedly be exceptional and of world-class standards.

It will be the first time that a Middle Eastern country will host the event in it’s 150 year history.  Dubai sets itself apart, providing a proven example of what human creativity, connectivity, and cooperation can achieve. It is a city that truly demonstrates the power of cultural diversity and the promise of prosperity if peoples work together in harmony.

Seychelles hopes to attend the Expo in 2020, both as participants and as visitors. The Expo will place emphasis on renewable technologies and sustainability, a field in which Seychelles and the UAE already collaborate closely.

The year 2020 will also be a special year for Seychelles, as it will be the 250th anniversary of since settlement began in the country. It will provide an opportunity for Seychelles to showcase its accomplishments and vision for the future which is closely linked to the theme of the 2020 World Expo- ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’