Switzerland is first country to sign up for Dubai Expo 2020

ABU DHABI // Switzerland this week became the first country to sign up for Dubai Expo 2020.

Maya Tissafi, Switzerland’s ambassador to the UAE, met with Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed, chairman of the Expo 2020 Dubai Higher Committee, to sign a letter of intent to participate. Ms Tissafi said her country would build a Dh57 million pavilion at the expo site.

“Switzerland and the UAE are both countries that thrive on connecting others, through travel and trade. Participating in Expo 2020 Dubai is also of great interest to Swiss companies and the tourism sector, given the region’s economic potential,” said Ms Tissafi.

Sheikh Ahmed, who is also chairman of Emirates airline, said the expo would be “an international focal point where people and countries will come together to celebrate human ingenuity, and our shared ability to build a better future”.

“We are delighted that the Swiss government has committed to participate, over four years ahead of the start of the Expo. The decision is an important reflection of the international role played by the UAE, and the significance of Expo 2020,” he said.

Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, and director-general of Expo 2020 Dubai, also welcomed the news.