The tree-planting ceremony marked the official start of preparations to build the Dutch pavilion.

Doha, 5t April 2023:  Today, the Secretary General of Expo 2023 Doha, Mohammed Ali Alkhoori, hosted H.E. the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Marjan Kamstra, in Al Bidda Park for a tree planting ceremony to kick off construction of the Dutch pavilion for Expo 2023 Doha.

The Kingdom of the Netherlands, one of the global leaders in horticulture, was one of the first countries to confirm its participation at the Expo. Last year, the Kingdom hosted the Qatar Pavilion at the renowned “Floriade” exhibition, strengthening the bilateral cooperation in horticulture and sustainability. The country has now accepted Qatar’s invitation to participate in Expo 2023 Doha and showcase the Netherlands’ expertise in horticulture through its pavilion that will span over 1883 sqm. The pavilion will have a natural landscape outside, similar to a desert, while inside it will reflect a city with cooler temperatures, as well as greener gardens resembling Dutch gardens.

Expo 2023 Doha will host events for all visitors, including families and kids. It will become the main entertainment hub with food, music, and entertainment for Qatar citizens, residents, and visitors during the Expo held between October 2nd, 2023, and March 28th, 2024.

H.E. the Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands Marjan Kamstra, said: “We are delighted to hold this groundbreaking ceremony and officially mark the start of the construction of our pavilion and gardens that will become part of Expo 2023 Doha legacy. Flowers and the horticultural industry are part of our national identity, and we look forward to sharing our knowledge and expertise with Expo 2023 Doha visitors from Qatar and abroad”.

Mohammed Ali Alkhoori, Expo 2023 Doha Secretary General, said: 'Planting the first tree in the International Zone is a significant milestone for Expo 2023 Doha with six months to go until the event’s start. The Kingdom of the Netherlands is an important partner for the State of Qatar. Expo 2023 Doha will provide opportunities to enhance bilateral and multilateral cooperation in horticulture, agriculture, and sustainability”.

More than 55 countries have already confirmed their participation in Expo 2023 Doha. The event will be home to beautiful gardens with plants from around the world and pavilions highlighting the world’s most innovative advancements in the horticultural, cultural, entertainment and culinary sectors.