Thursday 01 June 2023 - 9:25:34 am

Ethiopia celebrates National Day at Expo 2020 Dubai


DUBAI, 3rd March, 2022 (WAM) -- Ethiopia celebrated its National Day at Expo 2020 Dubai on Wednesday with a flag-raising ceremony at the Al Wasl Stage of Nations, speeches, and a performance showcasing the country's diverse indigenous culture.

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence and Commissioner-General of Expo 2020 Dubai, welcomed Tagesse Chaffo, Speaker of the House of Peoples' Representatives of Ethiopia.

Sheikh Nahyan said, "Ethiopia's participation tells the story of a nation that is considered one of the birthplaces of humankind, inviting visitors to experience its culture, values and traditions, while showcasing the innovative development of its natural resources, industrial and manufacturing successes, as well as its digital economy.

"The UAE's relations with Ethiopia have thrived over the years, as we consider Ethiopia to be a strategic trade and investment partner for the UAE in East Africa. We also look forward to expanding the framework of our collaboration across the economic, trade and development spheres to achieve shared benefits."

Chaffo commented, "Ethiopia's presence in Expo 2020 Dubai has positioned it as a safe, unique and diverse tourist destination, and promotes the wide range of export products Ethiopia is offering to the world, introducing the untapped investment opportunities in the country."

"It is also my hope that the Expo has been an opportunity to enhance Ethiopia's reputation by highlighting its crucial role in shaping a better future for the entire world on many fronts, including trade, commerce, tourism and investment.

He added that Ethiopia's trade with the UAE is now worth US$1 billion and predicted that it will be much higher within a few years.

The celebrations in Al Wasl continued with a display of folkloric dances by the Ethiopian National Theatre from Oromos, Amharas, Gurages, Tigrayans and the South Region, with the Ethiopian diaspora dancing and waving flags, adding colour and cheer to the celebrations. Ethiopia has more than 150 dance styles, comprises more than 80 ethnic groups and as many languages, and is the oldest independent country in Africa.

National and Honour Days at Expo 2020 Dubai are moments to celebrate the 200-plus international participants, shining a light on their culture and achievements and showcasing their pavilions and programming.

 

WAM/Esraa Ismail/Rola Alghoul