An opportunity for economic growth

Madiyar Menilbekov, Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the UAE, has emphasised that Expo 2020 Dubai constitutes a distinguished opportunity to develop the economic and trade ties between the UAE and Kazakhstan.

During a roundtable discussion on the 30th anniversary of Kazakhstan’s independence and the UAE’s 50th anniversary of its establishment, the Kazakh Ambassador said that this year represents a historic moment in the development and prosperity journey.

He extended sincere congratulations to the UAE’s leadership on the country’s 50th National Day, wishing more development, progress and prosperity for the Emiratis.

Menilbekov pointed out that the trade exchange volume between Kazakhstan and the UAE from January to last September stood at $580 million, an increase of 52 per cent compared to the same period the previous year. Exports for the same period amounted to $518 million, which is more than 72 per cent compared to the same period last year.

He stressed that bilateral relations have witnessed a dynamic development thanks to the close and regular meetings of the two countries’ leaders. He noted that political and economic cooperation had reached an outstanding level of partnership.

Uzbekistan unveils extensive cultural programme: The national pavilion of the Republic of Uzbekistan has unveiled the nations recent scientific and economic achievements at Expo 2020 Dubai.

The pavilion also presented the cultural heritage, tourism attractions and investment opportunities of Uzbekistan and its national development roadmap.

Throughout Expo 2020 Dubai, the Art and Cultural Development Foundation of Uzbekistan, the official partner of the Uzbekistan pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, will hold several events to promote the country and its potential.

Expo 2020 Dubai is set to receive 25 million visitors from all over the world during its six-month duration until it closes on 31st March, 2022.

Saida Mirziyoyeva, Deputy Chairperson of the Council of the Arts and Culture Development Foundation, said, “Today when Uzbekistan is open to the world and ready to adopt positive experience and gladly share our own, we are laying a new foundation for the effective promotion of Uzbekistan’s cultural potential in the international arena. In 2022, we will mark the 30th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations between Uzbekistan and the UAE. These have been three fruitful decades that taught us to trust each other, inspire each other for new achievements and interact at different levels and in different spheres.” Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Director-General of the Government of Dubai Media Office, Vice President of the UAE Gender Balance Council, said, “Expo 2020 Dubai is a truly global platform that brings together the best achievements and minds from 191 countries. The event also coincides with the UAE’s golden jubilee, and this is a fitting time to highlight our past national achievements and our plans for the next fifty years and beyond. Celebrating our golden jubilee with the whole world prompts us to look to the future with confidence, knowing that we have the imagination and capability to shape a future that is better for all.” Al Marri said, “We welcome Uzbekistan as our guest and we recognise the hard work of The Art and Culture Development Foundation initiatives here in Dubai. This programme and pavilion enhance bilateral cooperation between our two nations across several priority areas and reflects solidarity between the leadership and the people of both the UAE and Uzbekistan.” The Uzbek cultural programme at Expo 2020 Dubai will include the international premiere of the ballet “Lazgi - Dance of Soul and Love” at the Dubai Opera on 27th November, 2021. It brings the ballet of Uzbekistan to a new level and begins its first tour around the world.

On 29th November, 2021, there is a session of the Republic of Uzbekistan on “The Role of Women in the Modernisation of Social Life” at the Women’s Pavilion of EXPO 2020 Dubai.

On 30th November, 2021, Pianist Bekhzod Abduraimov will perform at a concert in Jubilee Park at EXPO 2020 Dubai. The pianist will perform popular classical works by Liszt, Beethoven, Chopin, Mussorgsky, Prokofiev, and Tchaikovsky.

From 19th to 21st December, 2021, the Art and Culture Development Foundation will participate in the “Al Burda” festival within the framework of EXPO 2020 Dubai.

Alicia Keys to unlock new double album:  Alicia Keys will be the first international artist to perform as part of Expo 2020 Dubai’s illustrious Infinite Nights series, performing from the heart of Al Wasl Plaza on 10 December as she unlocks her new double album, Keys.

Created by the 15-time Grammy Award-winner, the global live-streamed show, held under the world’s largest 360-degree projection dome, celebrates 20 years of outstanding musical success for one exclusive night only. Guests can expect dazzling new arrangements of Keys’ biggest hits, as well as new material from her highly anticipated new double album.

Aligned with Expo’s subtheme of Opportunity, which strives to unlock the potential of individuals and communities to shape the future, Keys’ concert promises to deliver uplifting messages with a human touch. The mesmerising ‘phygital’ show experience will benefit from state-of-the-art entertainment technology at Al Wasl Plaza and a stunning sound system, to be experienced live by millions around the world.

Alicia Keys said: “Performing in Expo 2020 Dubai’s Infinite Nights series is going to be such an incredible experience! I’m so excited to share such a beautifully unique and special performance on the eve of the release of my new album ‘Keys’ with the world. ‘Keys’ is all about letting go of anything that holds you back and breaking through the invisible ceilings above us! It perfectly reflects Expo’s values. I cannot wait to unlock this new universe with you.”

Audiences can look forward to an exciting live show featuring Alicia’s classic songs as well as a glimpse into the Keys double album. Side A’s ‘Originals’ features Alicia’s much-loved piano sound, while side B’s ‘Unlocked’ creates a whole new perspective, turning it up a notch with more intense, upbeat sounds in what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of love and life.

Lubna Haroun, Vice President, Moment-Makers, Expo 2020 Dubai, said: “After the incredible success of our Arab artists in October and November, we are excited to bring Alicia Keys to Expo 2020 to headline our Infinite Nights series. Expo 2020 and Alicia share the belief that people’s creativity and diversity should be celebrated, that everyone has the opportunity to fulfil their dreams and shine. We are looking forward to a show that inspires and delights our audiences.”

Santa Claus at Finland Pavilion:  On December 17, 2021, as part of Finland at Expo 2020 Dubai’s Christmas celebrations, Santa Claus will be arriving in Dubai all the way from his workshop in Korvatunturi, Finland, to greet visitors to the Finland pavilion. Taking a short break from preparing presents, Santa will be meeting with adults and children daily for photo opportunities and to hear last-minute Christmas wishes.  

There are few people so instantly recognisable and so beloved as Santa Claus. The jolly old man radiates warmth and inspires people to care for each other. He is a genuine symbol of goodwill and giving all over the world. Santa’s annual mission is to deliver happiness worldwide with the help of his team of trusty reindeer friends. With the happiness that Santa brings and his message of hope and joy, it should not come as a surprise that Santa is, in fact, from Lapland in Northern Finland.

To support Finland’s pavilion theme of  ‘Sharing Future Happiness’, Santa will be also be asking visitors what makes them happy in the hope of spreading Christmas cheer to all.

Leaving just in time to start his deliveries on Christmas Eve, Santa will be meeting visitors to Finland’s Snow Cape pavilion until December 22, 2021. Visitors are encouraged to plan their trips to meet Santa Claus early to avoid disappointment.