The International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) has approved an application from The State of Qatar to host an A1 International Horticultural Exhibition in 2021/22. The approval of Expo 2021 Doha (Qatar) was finalised in March 2018 with formal recognition by the BIE (Bureau International des Expositions) on 22 November 2018.
With a theme focused on greening the desert and improving the environment the Expo will take place in Doha, Qatar from late 2021 to early 2022. It will cover at least 50 hectares and is expected to attract 3 million visitors.
Expo 2021 Qatar will be organised in the context that climate, water and soil are indispensable and endangered resources. Based on the Qatar National Vision 2030 the objectives of Expo 2021 Qatar are:
• Host the first horticultural exhibition in a region with a desert climate
• Invite the global horticultural sector to share knowledge and experience in support of the Qatar National Vision 2030.
• To lead the region in how the Green City Concept can be applied in the Middle East
• Encourage horticultural innovation around the climate, water and soil situation in Qatar
• To stimulate international investments and business opportunities for foreign countries in Qatar
• Establish a connection between green, sport and human health
• Develop an ‘international park’ in support of the FIFA World Cup 2022
Commenting on the approval AIPH Secretary General, Mr. Tim Briercliffe said “The approval of this Expo marks an exciting new opportunity for developing horticulture and city greening in Qatar and the broader Middle East region. This will be a unique opportunity for the world to demonstrate how plants and the landscape can address challenges faced by hot, desert countries and we very much look forward to working with the Government of Qatar to make this a great event which will held just one year before they host the FIFA World Cup.”
His Excellency Abdulla Bin Abdulaziz Al Subai, Minster of Municipality and Environment in the State of Qatar, said “It is of utmost importance to consider the Expo 2021 Doha as a catalyst for boosting the construction of parks, the development of horticulture and the planting of flowers, plants and trees in harsh climates in terms of heat, salinity and aridity. Thus, we are very proud that Doha is hosting an interactive, multi-purpose Expo with goals to enhance the natural environment at an international level. We hope that many countries will want to participate in such an important and interactive event with their own inspiring content. We will encourage countries to share their technology and knowledge with nations that manage harsh climates so we can find radical solutions for the benefit of all. As we live most of our lives in cities, we should consider the beauty of cities and green areas as both vital and significant”.
AIPH approves International Horticultural Exhibitions in accordance with the AIPH Regulations for International Horticultural Exhibitions (http://aiph.org/marketing-and-exhibitions/) and Article 4.B.2 of the International Convention Relating to International Exhibitions. Approval is granted subject to conditions. Approval of A1 International Horticultural Exhibitions is also subject to recognition by the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE – www.bie-paris.org).
