The world expo, which is being held in the Middle East for the first time, is the biggest business and national marketing event of the year for Estonia, at which 42 of its most innovative companies are represented. The Estonian pavilion in Dubai, in the blue of the nation’s flag, tells the country’s digital story as well as showcasing its world-class education and love of nature, which go hand in hand with its willingness to test new forms of technology.
“The recognition a country enjoys forms part of its security, and for Estonia, as one of 192 countries, it is important to be present and visible,” said economic adviser to the president Kaspar Oja. “The soft diplomacy role that Expo plays shouldn’t be underestimated, particularly when it comes to the interests of entrepreneurs. Close relationships carry a lot of weight in the Middle Eastern region, and fostering diplomatic relations between countries also gives business a boost, since it serves as a guarantee in local business circles.”
Potential joint fields in education and research cooperation between Estonia and the United Arab Emirates are innovation, materials sciences, space technology and, in particular, personal medicine and the implementation of gene programmes. On Monday, the Estonian head of state will be giving a public lecture at the University of Sharjah on the role of biotechnology in today’s world. He will also attend the official opening of the Estonian-Emirati Business Council and participate in a joint business forum of the two countries. The business council is designed to foster economic contact between the two countries once the Expo has come to an end.
The official meetings taking place as part of the visit will focus on bilateral relations, matters pertaining to the unfolding security situation, and developments both regionally and globally.
Minister of Culture Tiit Terik is a member of the presidential delegation in Dubai, which is also being joined by representatives of influential Estonian companies and some of the country’s most popular musicians.
The head of state will be returning to Estonia on Tuesday evening.
