by On the 28th (local time), the 173rd general meeting of the Organization for International Exhibitions (BIE) was held at the Palais des Congrès on the southern outskirts of Paris, France, Korea, Italy, and Saudi Arabia, which are competing to host the 2030 World Expo (Expo), voted for member states. Previously, the final presentation of the three countries and three colors was presented, attracting attention.
Korea was the first to make a presentation, with speakers including Mayor Park Hyeong-jun, Public Relations Ambassador Na Seung-yeon, Chairman Chey Tae-won, Prime Minister Han Deok-soo, and former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. During the speech, a video titled ‘Korea’s sincerity in repaying the help it received from around the world’ was introduced, which contained the story of a Korean War veteran and his granddaughter. Following this, leading K-pop figures, including vocalist Sumi Jo, Taemin of SHINee, and Psy, appeared in a video and asked for support for Korea.
Italy, considered to have the lowest odds of winning in the competition, presented for the second time. Italian speakers emphasized slogans such as ‘Mama Rome’ and ‘Home is Rome’ and that Rome will become a home that embraces people worldwide. Then, movie star Sabrina Impazzatore said, “Rome is always full of people, and it is a place where everyone is always welcome.” Impazzatore continued, “Rome is waiting for you like a mother. “Rome, where everything is possible and even the impossible is possible, will create the future,” she said.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who did not appear in person at the General Assembly, boasted in a video, “It is the first megacity, the capital of religion, a city where people and cultures meet, and a city that combines ancient truth and modern technology,” and added, “I look forward to the future in Rome.” “Let’s make it happen,” he appealed.
Lastly, it was Saudi Arabia’s turn, and Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan appeared as a speaker. Minister Farhan said, “We have strived to create a 2030 Expo that keeps the promise of opportunity and pushes boundaries in terms of inclusivity, accessibility, and sustainability,” and added, “Now we want to give back to those who helped us along the way.” He asked for support for the Expo to be held in Riyadh, saying, “Saudi Arabia will contribute to solving the numerous challenges facing the world today.” Cristiano Ronaldo, a world-renowned soccer star for the Saudi professional soccer club Al-Nasr, also sent a support video, saying, “Please vote for Riyadh.”
