Beyond the Votes: Unraveling the Dynamics of Expo 2030 Diplomacy

‘Saudi Capital Riyadh Triumphs in Bid to Host World Expo 2030’

In a diplomatic triumph, Riyadh secured hosting rights for World Expo 2030, marking a significant milestone akin to the previous FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Competing against Busan, South Korea, and Rome, Italy, Riyadh clinched an impressive 119 votes, surpassing the required two-thirds majority from the 182 members of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) in Paris.

Italian disappointment was evident, with Giampiero Massolo, head of the Italian Expo bid, expressing surprise at the scale of Saudi Arabia’s victory. Massolo hinted at undisclosed transactions overshadowing merits, stating, “Yesterday it was a soccer championship, tomorrow it will be the Olympics.”

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol extended congratulations, recognizing Saudi Arabia as a “key partner” and pledging collaboration to ensure Riyadh’s successful hosting. Riyadh strategically engaged global audiences, leveraging soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo in a compelling video presentation before the vote. The proposed Expo timeline spans from October 2030 to March 2031.

The victory resonates with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030, aiming to diversify Saudi Arabia’s economy. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud highlighted active global outreach, emphasizing, “We engaged counterparts actively to understand expectations and gain trust.”

Critics speculate on Prince Mohammed’s motives, suggesting an image makeover post the 2018 Jamal Khashoggi murder. Ahead of the vote, intensive lobbying and high-profile events in Paris unfolded, drawing attention to Saudi-French ties. French support seemingly hinged on Saudi cooperation in key diplomatic matters.

As Saudi Arabia readies for Expo 2030, the event promises economic opportunities, global partnerships, and a spotlight on the kingdom’s journey to a diversified, sustainable future.

Strategic Moves: Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Program Scores Big with World Expo Host Win

Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh, emerged victorious in securing the hosting rights for World Expo 2030, seen as another diplomatic triumph for the Gulf region after Qatar’s soccer World Cup, aligns with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s ambitious Vision 2030 program. While Riyadh celebrates, Italian contestants express surprise and disappointment, claiming unexpected results and suggesting transactions played a role. Despite the controversy, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud highlights active global engagement as a key strategy in winning trust.

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