Saudi Crown Prince Presents Riyadh’s Bid for Expo 2030 in Paris
Paris, June 20, 2023 — Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia graced the grand official reception held in Paris on Monday, as the Kingdom enthusiastically showcased its candidacy to host Expo 2030. The event, attended by representatives from 179 member countries of the Bureau International des Expositions, set the stage for an intense competition among four nations vying to become the future host city.
Immersing attendees in Saudi Arabia›s rich heritage and cultural depth, the Royal Commission for the City of Riyadh organized a captivating exhibition that offered a virtual journey to Riyadh in 2030. Commencing at King Salman International Airport, the exhibition guided visitors through iconic landmarks such as the Sports Boulevard, King Salman Park, Diriyah Gate, and Qiddiya, providing a glimpse of Riyadh›s promising future.
The reception marked a crucial milestone in the nomination process for countries aspiring to host the prestigious expo. The General Assembly of the International Bureau of Exhibitions, scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday at the BIE headquarters in Paris, will delve into the comprehensive candidature dossiers submitted by Saudi Arabia, Italy, South Korea, and Ukraine. The momentous decision to select the host city will be made through voting in November this year.
Distinguished attendees at Monday›s reception included a high-ranking Saudi delegation, members of the international diplomatic corps stationed in Paris, ambassadors accredited to UNESCO, prominent participating entities, representatives of BIE member states, and esteemed officials from the French government and private sector.
Within France, Riyadh›s bid has been gaining widespread support. In an exclusive interview with Arab News, influential French senator Natalie Goulet expressed her endorsement, viewing the Expo as the crowning achievement of Vision 2030. Goulet highlighted the remarkable progress witnessed in Saudi Arabia, ranging from advancements in women›s rights and modernization to the flourishing music scene, increased openness, and booming tourism industry.
Echoing Goulet›s sentiments, Jack Lang, president of the Arab World Institute and former French Minister of Culture, emphasized that choosing Riyadh as the host city would be a «smart and visionary choice.» Lang recognized the ambitious strides made under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, endorsing the Saudi capital as an ideal destination for the Expo.
The global anticipation builds as the World Expo 2030 project examination phase is underway. The world eagerly awaits the November General Assembly when the BIE member states will elect the host country. As the competition heats up, the decision will undoubtedly shape the future of this prestigious international event.
