President
of the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH),
Bernard Oosterom, congratulated Turkey on creating a spectacular A1
International Horticultural Exhibition, during his speech at the Opening
Ceremony of Expo 2016 Antalya on 22 April.
Speaking
alongside President Erdogan of Turkey, Prime Minister Davutloglu,
senior Turkish government ministers, Secretary General of the BIE and
ambassadors from around the world, Mr. Oosterom addressed the 5,000
guests and TV audiences telling them, “This Expo has brought together
the horticulture industry, countries and their governments from all over
the world around themes designed to promote ‘a green life for future
generations’. Visitors will be able to immerse themselves in the wonder
of plants and flowers and learn for themselves that plants and green
cities are vital comp
onents of life today.”
Over
60 countries, institutions and Turkish municipalities are participating
in the Expo which opened to the public on 23 April attracting over
35,000 visitors on its first day. Visitors from around the world have
until 30 October to visit the 125 hectare Expo site.
AIPH
approval is necessary for any country organising an International
Horticultural Exhibition to which other countries will be invited to
participate. Expo 2016 Antalya was approved by AIPH in 2008 and
commenting on the Expo, AIPH Secretary General and Chairman of the
International Honorary Jury, Tim Briercliffe said, “I would encourage
everyone to visit this Expo. Alongside the different country gardens,
developed in association with many AIPH members, there is also an
amazing display of mosaiculture exhibits. The organisers have also
planned many other live events and attractions which are expected to
attract millions of visitors in this popular tourist area.” He continued
“This is the first major international event hosted in Turkey and will
certainly pave the way for other such events here in the future.”
President
of the Turkish Ornamental Plant and Products Exporters Association and
AIPH Board Member, Osman Bagdatlioglu was involved in initiating the
Expo back in 2008. Following the opening ceremony he said, “I am so
pleased to see the result of many years hard work. Antalya has the
potential for major expansion in the international trade in ornamentals.
This Expo helps to put us on the world horticulture map and the
industry will use this to promote further growth.”
Find out more about Expo 2016 Antalya at www.expo2016.org.tr