Expo 2020 organizers are mulling the postponement of the mega event by one year in light of the global pandemic COVID-19’s impact on the worldwide economy.
Expo 2020 is a World Expo to be hosted by Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, scheduled to be opened on 20th October, 2020.
UAE has spent billions on infrastructure in preparation. Local officials and executives have said the world event would be a major driver of economic growth in the country.
Emirates News Agency reported today that the Committee collectively agreed to explore with the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) , the World Expo governing body, the possibility of a one year delay to the opening of Expo 2020.
The Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) will now work with its Member States and Expo 2020 Dubai organisers to establish a change in dates.
A final decision on postponement can only be made by the BIE’s Executive Committee and the General Assembly. Article 28 of the BIE Convention stipulates that, a change of dates requires a two-thirds majority vote from Member States of the Organisation.
Expo 2020 Dubai convened a second virtual meeting of its Steering Committee, with representatives of the countries taking part in the event, as part of ongoing consultations that the impact of coronavirus, COVID-19, will have on global preparations of Expo 2020 Dubai.
Participating countries briefed the Steering Committee on the global precautionary measures that have to be taken to ensure the health and safety of all those involved in the preparation of this mega event.
The Steering Committee reviewed with grave concern the major impact that the spread of COVID-19 is having on global public, social, and economic health. The members reaffirmed their solidarity with the international community as it navigates through the ramifications that have resulted from this unprecedented global crisis.
The Emirates News Agency also reported that Expo 2020 Dubai organisers will continue to assess the situation and consult closely with all stakeholders in Dubai, in UAE and internationally as well .
India was expected to participate in a major way at the Expo 2020. Besides, India’s art and culture ,the India Pavilion was to showcase its achievements in space, pharmaceuticals, information technology, renewable energy and telecom sectors and also strength in innovation and start-ups.
