DUBAI – The Republic of Malawi celebrated its National Day at Expo 2020 on Saturday, 20 November, with traditional dances and singing, amid beating drums and ululating at Al Wasl Plaza, as a crowd of Malawians cheered.
His Honour Dr Saulos Chilima, Vice President of the Republic of Malawi, was welcomed by His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence and Commissioner General of Expo 2020 Dubai.
His Honour Dr Saulos Chilima said: “I would like to thank our hosts in the UAE for putting together this very wonderful and fruitful Expo. The impact of this Expo will be felt by millions of people across the world, including Malawi.”
His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan, said: “The UAE and Malawi share thriving diplomatic and economic relations, which have culminated in the UAE being one of Malawi’s top import partners. Given that the UAE has been credited for being one of the fastest developing countries in the world, we are optimistic about opportunities for collaboration with Malawi on matters that are of common importance to our two countries, such as education, investment, ICT, and innovation, and we hope to utilise this Expo as a platform to accelerate this.”
“Designed by an exceptional group of students at the University of Malawi under the theme ‘Malawi: Your Preferred Destination for Business and Leisure’, the pavilion’s exhibition tells the story of Malawi from the eyes of a child and showcases its potential as a hub for business and investments, as well as a beautiful tourist destination that is home to scenic landscapes and culturally rich communities. The pavilion’s visitors are invited to feel the generous hospitality of the warm heart of Africa, as they engage in content that focuses on the youth of Malawi.”
Speaking at a media conference later, His Honour Dr Saulos Chilima emphasised his nation’s potential: “I would like to assure everyone that Malawi is ready to do business and also to welcome investors and visitors to enjoy our vibrant culture and experience our beautiful lake and wildlife. We are the warm heart of Africa.”
“Malawi is a land of untapped opportunities waiting to be explored. Malawi prides herself on beautiful landscapes and abundant natural resources, a hard-working and trainable workforce, a peaceful and welcoming environment, a strong judicial system, and ceaseless investment and trade opportunities.”
Located in the Opportunity District, the Malawi Pavilion shares its rich culture, its business opportunities, as well as being a hub for tourism. Visitors can explore a series of innovations changing the lives of locals and experience a range of authentic, local products. Interactive displays and big screens also allow visitors to travel through Malawi’s remarkable landscapes.
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. Each features a flag-raising ceremony at the Stage of Nations in Al Wasl Plaza, followed by speeches and cultural performances.
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.
