Special sounds for a special celebration at the Expo 2020 Dubai

DUBAI: The Republic of Burundi celebrated its National Day at Expo 2020 Dubai recently with an impressive performance from the country’s traditional drummers and remarks from the leader of the East African nation.

President Evariste Ndayishimiye, First Lady Angelique Ndayishimiye, and Patrick Nkurunzizawere, Commissioner General of Burundi, were welcomed by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President, Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, and Chairman of the Expo 2020 Dubai Higher Committee; and Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director General of Expo 2020 Dubai.

Najeeb Mohammed Al-Ali, Executive Director, Commissioner General Office, Expo 2020 Dubai, said, “Under the theme ‘Philosophy of Giving and Receiving’, Burundi highlights the exchanges that are required on a regional and international level towards achieving sustainable development. The design of the exhibition showcases Burundi’s unique eco-tourism and cultural wonders to our visitors, and welcomes them with daily tastings of one of the world’s best coffees, as recognised by United Nations’ Alliance for Coffee Excellence. Visitors to the Burundi Pavilion will get to experience some of Burundi’s greatest marvels, unique traditions, and its welcoming and hardworking people.”

Najeeb Mohammed Al-Ali highlighted the importance of the ties between the UAE and Burundi: “We firmly believe that East Africa, the fastest-growing economic district on the African continent, offers tremendous opportunities for business communities in the UAE and the region, and as our relationship with Burundi continues to blossom and expand across various sectors, we hope to build on the existing partnerships between our two countries.”

In his remarks, President Ndayishimiye cited numerous values that lead and facilitate friendly and effective relations with the African community and the world more generally, including wisdom, respect, unity, bravery, justice, patriotism, courage, love, and sharing.

The Burundi Pavilion is located in the Opportunity District, and showcases many of its attractions and cultural traditions, with a chance to sample its honey, coffee, and mountain tea. There are trade, business, and investment opportunities, with the highlight of Burundi’s cultural performances being its sacred drums.

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.

Source: Expo 2020 Website