In 2016, the Turkish city of Antalya will welcome millions of visitors to its horticultural Expo dedicated to the theme "Flowers and Children". Through its gardens and interactive activities, Expo Antalya 2016 will focus on one major objective: educating future generations on the importance of nature preservation and sustainable development. Selami Gulay, Secretary General of the Expo, shares his views on the project.
BIE: Expo 2016 Antalya opens in less than 2 years. What steps of the preparation are you currently working on?
Selami Gulay: Over 20% of the construction and planting process has been accomplished and all the works should be finalized by December 2015. As mentioned during the presentation of our Progress Report to the BIE, the Operational and Organizational Plans, Construction, Planting, Biddings, Information Technologies and Promotional works are all under way.
Antalya is participating to the Communities in Bloom Competition. How does this project relate to the Expo and the Green City Concept advocated by the AIPH (Association of International Horticultural Producers)?
Communities in Bloom is a Canadian non-profit organization that aims at increasing people's responsibility toward environmental issues and greening areas in cities. The competition rewards cities for their achievements in these fields and boosts new projects. We see our participation to the competition as a first step towards Expo 2016 and as an example for all cities in Turkey to strive for greener spaces. The candidacy of Antalya to the competition is strongly encouraged by the AIPH and our participation will help strengthen our communication network and cooperation potentials and open new opportunities. A team has already begun working on the project.
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