Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
MEDIA STATEMENT ON SOUTH AFRICA'S PARTICIPATION IN INTERNATIONAL EXPO '98 IN LISBON, PORTUGAL
South Africa joins 150 other countries by opening its pavilion at the Lisbon International Expo 1998 this weekend. The Expo, which is held every 5 years, will focus on the Marine Environment with "The Oceans, a Heritage for the Future" as its theme. The Expo will run through to 30 September 1998 and is expected to attract 16 million people.
This theme, which coincides with the declaration of 1998 as the year of the oceans, is intended to enhance the knowledge of the oceans and its resources. The general focus articulated under several categories such as knowledge of the seas, the ocean and the ecological balance of the planet, the oceans and leisure and the oceans as a source of artistic inspiration.
South African participation in the Expo '98 will bring together and display South African knowledge of the oceans and related matters. It will highlight the interdependence of the South African coastline and oceans with the economy, the face of its people, their achievements and aspirations, and their endeavours to contribute in their own particular way and through international cooperation to improving the quality of life of humanity in general.
South African participation is seen as a national event in which various government departments, NGOs, corporate bodies and other revelant parties will participate.
The event will provide South Africa with a magnificent global platform and a unique opportunity to promote its investment, trade and tourism potential. The Department of Arts, Culture, Science and Technology has arranged an exhibition of fine art coordinated by the South Africa Association of Arts, and artefacts assembled by the African Window will also be showcased at the South African pavillion.
South Africa has been allocated 3 August 1998 as its courtesy day during which a range of cultural events by various South African performing artists and groups will receive special attention.
ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS PRETORIA 24 MAY 1998