Qatar approved yesterday the delay of the International Horticultural Expo (Expo Doha 2021), held under the theme of Green Desert, Better Environment, to October 2023.
This came following a recommendation by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) which held an emergency meeting to discuss the repercussions of the coronavirus pandemic.
AIPH made the decision after citing the time required to organise the exhibition and the difficulties facing some of the participating countries in preparing for the event.
HE the Minister of Municipality and Environment Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Subaei welcomed the decision to delay the Expo to AIPH's proposed date.
He stressed that Qatar has been working throughout the pandemic on implementing a strategy that would mitigate its economic and social impact, noting that the country remains committed to hosting high-level international events such as the International Horticultural Expo which is being held for the first time in the region.
For his part, Secretary-General Secretary of the Qatari national committee organising Expo Doha, Mohamed Ali Khoori stressed the importance of hosting the event for the first time in the region, particularly since Qatar has become a hub for hosting international events.
He added that they are committed to providing a unique experience for the international community, Qatari citizens, and the entire region.
Secretary-General of AIPH Tim Briercliffe had called for postponing Expo 2021 to allow more time for the participating countries to prepare for the event.
The new dates will see the expo take place from October 2023 to March 2024 in Qatar for the first time in the region.
More than 80 countries, in addition to international organisations and cities, will take part in the event.
Related Story