Jordan has signed an agreement to become the 5th Mena country to participate in Expo 2023 Doha. While exploring the theme “Solid roots, greener era”, the Jordanian pavilion will showcase the country’s agricultural heritage and innovative technologies to highlight sustainability and reduce desertification.
According to an official statement, Jordan’s pavilion will demonstrate humans’ relationship with nature across the ages, demonstrating how the country has been able to leverage its environmental diversity and overcome challenges, particularly the global food security crisis.
At the same time, Jordan will exhibit the newest technologies being used in light of the country’s water scarcity, including biotechnology and tissue culture, hydroponics, development of field crop varieties, such as wheat and barley, smart farming systems, permaculture, modern irrigation systems increasing water efficiency, as well as water harvesting systems and many other modern technologies.
The statement said visitors will be invited to plunge into Jordan’s breathtaking landscapes through the pavilion that will take them on a journey through the country’s cities, public parks, and the Jordan Valley - a green basket of vegetables and fruits – while also raising awareness of the current challenges posed by Jordan’s desertification.
The pavilion will also invite visitors to ascend to the country’s spectacular mountains covered in trees and learn about Jordan’s medicinal and aromatic plants in a dedicated vertical garden. Following the best traditions of Arabian hospitality, Jordan’s pavilion will offer visitors an opportunity to taste the country’s food and buy traditional souvenirs and agricultural products.
The Secretary General of Jordan’s Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply and the Commissioner General of Jordan’s Pavilion at Expo 2023 Doha, Dana al-Zoubi said the expo constitutes an opportunity for the world to exchange knowledge of climate-smart agriculture and food systems.
“Jordan is considered one of the world’s driest nations. Therefore, it’s working on finding sustainable solutions to face the increasing environmental challenges, including water scarcity, land degradation and rising temperatures. The use of underground waters, protected cultivation, vertical farming and smart selection of plant species suitable for the environment are just some of the country’s solutions to mitigate against environmental threats,” al-Zoubi said.
“We are hoping to increase knowledge and awareness around horticulture and the environment for future generations. In doing this, we will enable them to continue the work of developing the desert and sustainable farming and face the ever-increasing environmental risks posed to the region. We are thankful for Qatar’s support of Jordan’s participation in the Expo 2023 Doha,” she added.
She also emphasised that Jordan is keen to participate and that the technical delegation’s presence in this visit is intended to prepare Jordan for to take part in the Expo by conducting site visits and meeting with the relevant authorities.
Jordan's ambassador to Qatar Zaid Mufleh al-Lawzi said Expo 2023 Doha will be an excellent platform for multilateral cooperation, while also presenting an opportunity to boost global awareness around the problem of desertification, which is particularly acute for countries like Jordan and Qatar.
“We are pleased to join this extraordinary event and delighted that it is taking place in the Mena region for the first time,” the ambassador said.
Expo Commissioner General Bader al-Dafa noted that Jordan and Qatar are brotherly countries and long-term partners, and Qatar is delighted to see Jordan’s eagerness to participate in the Expo.
“Jordan’s pavilion will be a truly breathtaking experience, showcasing the beauty of this Middle Eastern country while highlighting the important challenges it is faced with. We look forward to supporting Jordan in acquainting visitors with its heritage and nature”, he added.
