Inclusivity at heart of São Tomé and Príncipe’s National Day celebrations at Expo 2020 Dubai

The Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe celebrated its National Day at Expo 2020 Dubai on Monday with a visit by His Excellency Osvaldo D’Abreau, Minister of Infrastructure and Natural Resources and an inclusive cultural performance.

His Excellency Osvaldo D’Abreau, accompanied by His Excellency Aerton Do Rosario, Minister of Tourism and Culture, was welcomed by His Excellency Sheikh Shakhboot Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

His Excellency Sheikh Shakhboot said: “São Tomé and Príncipe’s participation at Expo 2020 Dubai highlights the country’s efforts in maintaining harmony between nature and society, and how it endeavours to ensure environmental conservation in the pursuit of socio-economic growth.

“This year, the UAE will celebrate 25 years of diplomatic ties with São Tomé and Príncipe, and through Expo 2020 Dubai, we look forward to forging new partnerships between our nations. We also hope that this World Expo provides São Tomé and Príncipe with the opportunity to develop rewarding partnerships with regional and international stakeholders and to attract foreign investments.”

His Excellency D’Abreau congratulated the UAE for successfully holding Expo 2020 Dubai, which he described as the “biggest event since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic (and) an excellent opportunity to show the world our wealth in ecology, nature and the environment.

“Firstly, (to) show the environmental potential of the country; secondly, to promote São Tomé and Príncipe as a nature tourist destination with a positive impact on local development; (and thirdly), to promote the country with investment perspectives (and) establish contacts with local and regional business.”

A performance by the country’s Companhia de Dança Inclusiva (ANKA) cultural group, which counts people of determination among its members, then took place in Al Wasl Plaza, along with a song from Guillermo Calvario, a São Toméan artist.

The theme of the São Tomé and Príncipe Pavilion, located in Mobility, focuses on balancing sustainability with socio-economic development, showcasing how its citizens live in harmony with their diverse environment of pristine beaches, dense rainforests, and interesting animals on the island they call home. 

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. 

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