The main focus of presentation was “Kazakhstan’s Three Steps towards Planet Earth.” President Nursultan Nazarbayev addressed the BIE delegates by video. In his speech, he noted that EXPO would be an important step for the country’s development, and the theme “Future Energy” is the only proper direction for developing the planet.
The delegation was headed by the Prime Minister, Mr. Karim Massimov. In addition, Kazakhstan was represented by Imangali Tasmagambetov, Akim (Mayor) of Astana, and moderated by Mrs. Zhanar Aitzhanova, Minister for Economic Integration,.
In his presentation, the Prime Minister focused on the theme “Future Energy”. Mr. Massimov noted that in its years of independence, Kazakhstan has strengthened its position in the political arena. Nowadays, the country successfully hosts major international events. EXPO would be a logical step in the development of a young and powerful country contributing to the global movement to save the planet.
The theme “Future Energy” proposed by Kazakhstan reflects the most current energy resource management problem for humanity and its solution poses a strategic challenge for many countries.
The Prime Minister spoke of Kazakhstan’s significant achievements and stable dynamics in economic growth.
Kazakhstan presented 3 videos including the 3D layout of the EXPO grounds and the Thematic pavilions in the planned exhibition area.
“We never received any previous bids from the Central Asia region. Kazakhstan is regarded as a peaceful country that stands outside the various conflicts in the West and the East”, noted Vicente Loscertales, BIE Secretary General.
Hosting an event of such importance may be an important milestone for Kazakhstan. According to the BIE requirements, for the 3 months of the exhibition, Astana will meet at least 3-4 million people from 100 countries around the world.
The Belgian city Liege is a competitor for Astana. The decision for the host country of EXPO 2017 will be made by the voting of 160 BIE member countries in November 2012.
Kazakhstan has been a BIE member for over 14 years. The country participated at EXPOs in Aichi, Zaragoza, Shanghai and this year in Yeosu, Korea.