DUBAI: The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) celebrated its National Day at Expo 2020 on Monday with a flag-raising ceremony, attended by the ASEAN Secretary-General Dato Lim Jock Hoi, on a day also marked with a bright and colourful video projection titled Experience ASEAN around Al Wasl dome, showcasing natural treasures only found in Southeast Asia.
The show was produced by the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity, with the support of the European Union in ASEAN through the Biodiversity Conservation and Management of Protected Areas (BCAMP) Project.
His Excellency Dato Lim Jock Hoi, Secretary General, accompanied by Commissioner General Lee Yoong Yoong, was welcomed by His Excellency, Ahmed Bin Ali Al Sayegh, UAE Minister of State.
His Excellency Al Sayegh said: “ASEAN’s participation highlights its regional integration story and showcases a multitude of rich cultures, while inspiring us to adopt ASEAN’s value of unity in diversity, an element that is reflected in its pursuit of inclusive development.
“The UAE is looking to strengthen ties with countries and international and multilateral organisations around the world with the aim of developing innovative and sustainable solutions to emerging challenges through enhanced collaboration.”
His Excellency Dato Lim Jock Hoi, Secretary General said: “The ASEAN Pavilion’s theme is ‘Creating Opportunities for the Peoples of ASEAN’, which showcases our journey in building a prosperous regional Community underpinned by peace and stability. But more importantly, it celebrates the richness of our heritage, cultures, and diversity.
“Our ASEAN Pavilion, as well as the other ten unique Pavilions of ASEAN Member States provide an experience of the warmth, hospitality and generosity that our peoples are known for, and to discover the boundless opportunities that Southeast Asia has to offer regardless of your interest, be it business, tourism, academic or cultural.”
The bloc’s member states are Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia. This is the first time ASEAN has ever exhibited at an Expo.
The ASEAN Pavilion is located in the Mobility District and is described as a one-stop shop for those who want to understand its role in the development of the region and provide a glimpse of the individual member countries’ cultural highlights. A curated showcase of ASEAN artwork and artefacts provide an introduction to the region’s creative and historical heritage. A variety of activities allow visitors to experience ASEAN culture through a dynamic photo booth with traditional ASEAN national dress upon request, building architectural puzzles, a digital quiz, and seasonal art demonstrations. Visitors can also take up the ASEAN Trail Challenge and go on a mission to visit the 10 ASEAN countries’ pavilions with specific information to discover.
National and Honour Days at Expo 2020 Dubai are moments to celebrate each of our 200-plus International Participants, shining a light on their culture and achievements and showcasing their pavilions and programming.
Running until 31 March 2022, Expo 2020 has invited visitors from across the planet to join the making of a new world in a six-month celebration of human creativity, innovation, progress and culture.
