Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi and Klaus Schwab at the gate of Expo 2020 Dubai.

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Professor Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum (WEF), on Tuesday opened the gate to Expo 2020 in a special ceremony to mark year of WEF founding.

The move also crowned years of partnership and friendship between the UAE and the Forum.

The WEF since January 1971 has provided a global dialogue platform for decision makers and business leaders to shape the future in various sectors.

"The gate opening ceremony signifies the UAE government’s appreciation for the pivotal role undertaken by the WEF and reflects the strong partnership between the UAE and the World Economic Forum," said Al Gergawi

The Minister of Cabinet Affairs reaffirmed the UAE Government and the World Economic Forum keenness to strengthen and promote this partnership in line with their aspiration to contribute actively in creating a brighter future for nations, communities and future generations.

On his part, Professor Klaus Schwab, founder and executive chairman of the World Economic Forum commended deep-rooted ties between the World Economic Forum (WEF) and the UAE government, and expressed his appreciation of celebrating the WEF’s 50th anniversary with the opening of Expo 2020 Dubai gate.

Professor Schwab further stated that the UAE government serves as a global role model in various fields, and that the outstanding organization of Expo 2020 Dubai reflects the UAE’s leading vision of innovation, sustainability and opportunity.  

The opening ceremony of Expo 2020 gates, designed by the famous London-based architect Asif Khan, is dedicated to welcome visitors of exhibitions and the multiple events held throughout the day.