· Three in five say more commitment to diversity and tolerance needed worldwide
· More than 50 per cent are optimistic about future opportunities for their country
· Survey polls 22,000 people across 24 markets as Expo prepares to open in October
By : Basel Khaled
A new global survey by Expo 2020 Dubai reveals that an overwhelming majority (86 per cent) of Egyptian respondents think nations must work together to combat worldwide challenges such as a pandemic.
The 2021 survey of more than 22,000 people across 24 countries tracked sentiment in a world irrevocably changed by COVID-19. Conducted in partnership with YouGov, it followed a similar study carried out in 2019, before the pandemic.
Egyptian respondents also believe in the unifying role that technology can play in bringing the world closer together, with half saying that they think digital advancements and inventions will play a part in creating a greater global togetherness.
The survey also gauged opinion on diversity, collaboration and building communities. Three in five Egyptians believe there will be greater commitment to diversity and tolerance across nations and the world in the next decade.
Her Excellency Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation and Director General of Expo 2020 Dubai, said: “Expo 2020 has developed this latest global study to help us understand how the citizens of the world believe we can shape a better future. Overall, the findings are encouraging, and show a collective desire to work together, broaden our horizons and exchange ideas.
“In less than two months, when Expo 2020 opens its doors, we look forward to welcoming millions of visitors from across the globe, and harnessing the kind of diversity this study reflects, as we join together to build a new world, with a brighter future for both people and the planet.”
The survey also shows that more than 50 per cent of Egyptian respondents have a positive outlook about their nation's prospects when it comes to opportunities in driving economic development and enabling individuals to meet their current needs and future aspirations. Additionally, more than half expressed positive sentiments about Egypt’s sustainable future.
Echoing the above, more than three in five believe that Egypt is likely to have a green infrastructure that supports green travel, such as electric vehicles and charging stations, in the next decade, while 64 per cent say a majority of the urban population will live in sustainable smart cities.
The Egypt Pavilion at Expo 2020 will showcase the country’s latest advancements and innovations, giving visitors the chance to explore the country's achievements past and present. Designed by Egyptian architect Hazem Hamada, the pavilion will also include a virtual tour, original antiquities and a 3D experience ‘to travel through a time machine’.
Mohamed ElKhatib, Commercial Councellor of Egypt at Expo 2020 Dubai, said: “In line with the 2030 Agenda, the Egyptian Government has launched a plan called Egypt’s Vision 2030, also known as Sustainable Development Strategy (SDS) which promotes economic prosperity based on justice, social integrity and participation.
The global survey reveals that Egyptian’s are by and large optimistic about their future and are united in their belief that by embracing pluralism and co-existence, the country can build bridges for cross-cultural communication and mutual comprehension.”
The survey delves into a range of subjects, also including health and wellness, sustainable travel, efficient food supply chains and the development of both urban and rural communities, all of which will be focuses of Expo 2020’s programming.
Under the mega-event’s Programme for People and Planet, Expo 2020’s participating countries, organisations, partners and visitors will collaborate to discuss future-proofing solutions to the world’s biggest challenges.
One of the first global mega-events to take place since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Expo 2020 will run from 1 October 2021 to 31 March 2022, inviting visitors from around the world to join the making of a new world, and experience a six-month celebration of human creativity, innovation, progress and culture.
For further information about the latest global survey by Expo 2020, please visit www.expo2020dubai.com/en/news.
More information on the Egyptian Pavilion at Expo 2020 can be found here.
