Fijian pavilion open at EXPO 2017 Astana
The Fijian pavilion at Expo 2017 Astana opened on Saturday 10 June, showcasing the country’s cultural diversity, tourism, trade and investment opportunities to the rest of the world.
The opening of the Fijian pavilion which followed on from the official opening of the Expo on Friday 9 June 2017.
The Expo’s theme which is ‘Future Energy’ aims to create a global debate between countries, nongovernmental organisations, companies and the general public on the crucial question of how do we ensure safe and sustainable access to energy for all while reducing carbon dioxide emissions? Furthermore, the theme is aimed to focus and concentrate on innovative ways and practical solutions in tackling social, economic and environmental challenges and their impacts. With the subtitle – ‘Solutions for Tackling Humankind’s Greatest Challenge’, the Expo will at the same time, showcase ground-breaking and new future energy solutions to those in attendance.
The Fijian pavilion, which is located in the Pacific Plaza introduces visitors to the elegant Fijian made products, authentic Fijian handicrafts and lifestyle. The interior walls are illuminated with projections of videos that display the issues of climate change, which poses threat to the Pacific Island countries, as a consequence of climate change and rise in sea level. This compliments Fiji’s presidency to the COP 23 and raising climate change agenda to the world. Furthermore, through its rich and diverse features, the pavilion reflects opportunities available in Fiji, strategies and ways in promoting Fiji together with its diversified energy resources and related projects in renewable energy.
The overall theme of the Expo which is ‘Future Energy’ is relevant, given that Fiji like many Small Island Developing States rely heavily on imported fossil fuel. Thus, investing in renewable energy will ensure that our citizens have access to clean and affordable energy services which also contributes to sustainable environment.
“Fiji’s participation at the EXPO would greatly benefit the nation, as it would, increase exposure and establish networks with the Central Asia market, result in the extension of international, economic, political, cultural and scientific ties and promote and share innovative ways and technologies and creation of new impetus for regional co-operation” said the Permanent Secretary for Industry, Trade and Tourism, Shaheen Ali.
Mr Ali further added that this would at the same time, strengthen diplomatic and economic partnership with Kazakhstan. Expo 2017 is scheduled till September 10 in Astana, Kazakhstan.
The Expo is expected to be attended by five million visitors over three months.
Over the past three weeks, over 28,000 visitors have come to the Fijian booth.