EXPO has never been held in nomad cities: Astana mayor Tasmagambetov
"Today we represent a young capital of Kazakhstan. And this is a great plus because youth is guided by hopes and dreams. Astana differs from other cities because everything we do or achieve is new and happens for the first time," akim (mayor) of Astana city Imangali Tasmagambetov said at the presentation while addressing BIE President Ferdinand Nagy.
"This forum is of paramount importance for Kazakhstan. We do realize that our spirit should be based on the material and organizational sources. We can guarantee that we have everything what it takes to host the exposition. Astana has already hosted the OSCE Summit, Asian Winter Olympiad, the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, to name a few. It is worth mentioning that President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev pays a great deal of attention to the capital of the country. We fully realize the global mission of EXPO aimed at supporting humankind's strive to change the world for the better and to make difference," Astana mayor noted in his speech.
He especially emphasized that EXPO had never been held in the cities with the specific spirit, culture and rich traditions of nomads.
According to Imangali Tasmagambetov, EXPO-2017 will cover the area of more than 100 ha and will be held in 97 pavilions.
"Astana will go to great lengths to fill the event that will be held in five years with atmosphere of friendship, faith and hope," Astana mayor assured the participants of the presentation.