Forum, Innovations, Latvia, Markets and Companies, Technology

The philosophy and message imparted through the Latvian pavilion will be “The road to happiness leads through harmony between nature and technology”. Throughout the six-month duration of the exhibition, (May 1 to October 31, 2010) Latvia will present its cultural achievements, its measures to protect the environment, its technological advancements, and its successful business stories to the world at large.

The Latvian pavilion will feature three vertical wind tunnels designed by the Latvian company, Aerodium.  Technology now allows people to fly in both a literal and figurative sense, and the Latvian pavilion will enable both. As the designers of the pavilion describe it, flight embodies the harmony, happiness and creative energy that human beings have always pursued. The Latvian pavilion will not only demonstrate this remarkable new technology, but also make it possible for guests to win a free flight in one of the vertical wind tunnels.

The Latvian pavilion will be located by the central square of the EXPO exhibit. It will stand out prominently and will be easy to spot from the main pedestrian walkway. The facade will symbolize nature and its various facets – forests, sea, land, sky, and wind. The entry stairway of the pavilion will lead upward in a spiral, symbolizing the continued, progressive development of humanity. At the top of the stairway, on the third floor of the exhibition hall, visitors will behold a glass wind tunnel, filled with flying people!

Apart from the wind tunnel, films and other audiovisual materials on Latvia and related themes will be shown on exposition screens within the pavilion. The first floor of the pavilion will house a souvenir shop, a cafe and representative space for conferences, business meetings and the reception of delegations. Three wind turbines will be located on the roof of the pavilion. During the evening hours, they will project a professional team of flying acrobats 20 metres into the night sky, high above the EXPO grounds. The Latvian tumblers’ flying, thematic performances will be complemented by a special light show.

Organizers expect about 70 million visitors, of whom about 90% will be from China. According to the Latvian Ministry of Economics, which is responsible for the exhibit, participation will provide Latvia with an unprecedented opportunity to showcase two fields of activity where the country is already competitive: innovative products and tourism. The promotion of these two sectors is also a Latvian government priority. The concept, design and operation of the pavilion is being managed by the Latvian Investment and Development Agency. Sponsors include the Latvian Railway and the Ventspils Free Port.

Through the EXPO exhibition in Shanghai, tens of millions of people will become acquainted with Latvian-made products and with Latvia as an attractive tourist destination. The promotion of Latvian goods and services, as well as Latvia as a place to visit will provide ample opportunities for the establishment of fruitful business partnerships. Therefore, Latvia’s participation in the EXPO exhibition is expected to generate long-term benefits.

EXPO has been the largest international exhibition in the world since 1851. From the beginning, EXPO exhibitions have featured innovative, new products designed to change the way that we live. While they still serve to promote international trade and the establishment of closer links among nations, they also showcase accomplishments in various other fields, including art and design, tourism, show business and advertising.

EXPO 2010 will take place in Shanghai, China, from May 1 to October 31, 2010. The central theme of EXPO 2010 is “Better city, better life”, reflecting the increasing urbanization of humanity.

For further information see website of Latvian membership in EXPO 2010:

www.latvijaexpo2010.lv