DUBAI – Mali celebrated its National Day at Expo 2020 on 23 February with a flag-raising ceremony at Al Wasl Plaza and vibrant performances by some of Mali’s most famous musicians, presenting the crème de la crème of the country’s music.
His Excellency Choguel Kokalla Maïga, Prime Minister of Mali, was welcomed by His Excellency Najeeb Mohammed Al-Ali, Executive Director, Commissioner General’s Office, Expo 2020 Dubai.
HE Choguel Kokalla Maïga, said: “The Mali Pavilion is a journey across the Niger River to discover the country’s cultural wealth and touristic wealth, but also the economic potential of living by the river. Building the future on a model of sustainability, resilience and ethics, the pavilion leads us to dive into the values of Mali, the foundational values of society that contemporary Mali brings together to contribute to universal civilizations.
“The support from the UAE [throughout Expo 2020 Dubai] is hardly surprising given the friendly relations and solidarity that have existed between our two countries since the historic visit in 1985 of His Royal Highness Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and most recently of the opening of the Mali Embassy in Abu Dhabi. I hope the celebrations of Mali National Day will undoubtedly strengthen the friendly relations and solidarity.”
HE Nejeeb Al-Ali said: “Mali’s participation highlights the country’s ancestral treasures, it’s fascinating history and burgeoning economy, while also giving visitors the opportunity to discover the warmth and hospitality of the Malian people, as well as the advancements and innovations driving the country’s present and future.”
The celebrations kicked off with a flag-raising ceremony at Al Wasl Plaza and the playing of Mali and the United Arab Emirates’ national anthems.
To mark the occasion, an exciting line-up of Mali’s most famous contemporary award-winning singers, performers, and musicians will take the Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre stage at Expo 2020 Dubai to play traditional instruments. Presenting one of the most beautiful sounds in Africa and proudly representing the Republic of Mali are Oumou Sangaré, Cheik Tidiae Seck, Sidiki Diabaté, Bassekou Kouyaté, Vieux Farka Touré, Kader Taranine, Madou, and Safi Diabaté.
Inspired by the warmth and hospitality of the Malian people, the country’s pavilion welcomes guests to learn more about the ‘land of opportunities’ through a journey along the Niger River. Visitors can also view a piece by Malian Artist Abdoulaye Konaté whose work explores socio-political issues with textile-based installations.
Guests are also able to interact with surprise boxes, where they can discover precious, historical artefacts and listen to Malian folktales that have been passed on from generation to generation.
National and Honour Days at Expo 2020 Dubai are moments to celebrate each of our 200-plus International Participants, shining a light on their culture and achievements and showcasing their pavilions and programming. Each features a flag-raising ceremony at the Stage of Nations in Al Wasl Plaza, followed by speeches and cultural performances.
Running until 31 March 2022, Expo 2020 has invited visitors from across the planet to join the making of a new world in a six-month celebration of human creativity, innovation, progress and culture.