Austria is presenting itself under the credo "Composing the Future" with a mix of tradition and innovation, investing 21.5 million euros in its appearance. Three-quarters of the funding comes from the public sector, and one-quarter from the Chamber of Commerce. Approximately 90 flagship projects will be showcased in the "Innovation Lab Austria".
Expo with Numerous Exhibitors
Over six months, Austria aims to present itself in its 800-square-meter pavilion, designed by the general planner BWM Designers & Architects and the general contractor Nüssli Group, to millions of visitors in a diverse manner, as stated during the presentation by the political and organizational leaders on Tuesday in Vienna. The Expo visitors are to be attracted to the building by a sculptural "musical score" made of wood as an eye-catcher.
This highlights the culturally significant element of music in both Austria and Japan. Additionally, the wooden construction is intended to showcase Austria's innovative strength combined with a sustainable design for the future. Around 160 countries, regions, and international organizations are exhibiting at the Expo.
"Best Showcases"
"Adi and Alex are the best representatives," said Minister of Economic Affairs Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer (ÖVP) at the press conference on Tuesday - referring to two Vienna Boys' Choir members positioned in the front row. They apparently must not be missing from an Expo appearance by Austria. "It's about strong tradition and culture, but also Austria as an industrial country, innovation, and high-tech. We want to carry this core positioning out into the world and use the Expo for this purpose," said the politician about the Expo as the "Olympic Games of the economy." It is also about deeper networking with Japan and more business in the entire East Asian region.
"The relations between Japan and Austria can be elevated to a new level," said the Japanese Ambassador to Austria, Kiminori Iwama, in a video message. Fundamentally, the Alpine republic is offered "a unique opportunity to impressively present not only its rich musical and cultural landscape but also its outstanding technical achievements and innovations to the world."
Seven Economic Focus Areas
For Austria, it is also about presenting itself as a tourism country. The seven economic focus areas were named by the Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce, Philipp Gady, as "Automotive, Renewable Energies, Semiconductors, Food Industry, Artificial Intelligence and Technology, Life Sciences, and Sustainable Building." "We play with stereotypes but want to bring them from tradition into modernity," said the Chamber of Commerce representative.
Former ÖVP Foreign Minister Ursula Plassnik acts as the honorary government commissioner and thus representative. According to her own statement, she agreed "after initial reservations" and became enthusiastic about the Expo matter for various reasons.
(APA/Red)
This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.