A delegation from the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea has paid a cordial visit to Ghana’s Parliament to seek Ghana’s support in their bid to host the World Expo 2030.

Led by Mr. Suh Byung Soo, a distinguished special envoy representing the Speaker of the Korean National Assembly, the delegation engaged in insightful discussions focused on the realms of Parliamentary Diplomacy and South Korea’s aspiration to host the prestigious “World Expo 2030.” They were warmly received by the First Deputy Speaker, Joseph Osei-Owusu.

During the discussions, the spotlight was on the dynamic concept of Parliamentary Diplomacy, where both nations explored avenues for enhanced collaboration and exchange of ideas between their legislative bodies. The talks also delved into exploring ways to further strengthen the bilateral relations that bind Korea and Ghana.

Of significant interest was South Korea’s ambitious bid to host the renowned “World Expo 2030,” a monumental global event that serves as a platform for nations to showcase their advancements, culture, and aspirations to a worldwide audience.

The Korean delegation expressed their belief that hosting this extraordinary event would offer a unique opportunity for their nation to unveil the keys to their remarkable economic growth and development, providing a stage to share their success story with the international community.

South Korea’s bid for the “World Expo 2030” is not without competition, as Italy and Saudi Arabia are also vying for the privilege of hosting this prestigious event. The deliberations between the Korean delegation and Ghanaian parliamentary representatives shed light on the significance of the expo and its potential to foster mutual understanding, cooperation, and cultural exchange among nations.

The discussions concluded with a shared sense of optimism and camaraderie, as both parties acknowledged the importance of parliamentary diplomacy in strengthening ties between countries.

Proposed Theme

The Republic of Korea’s bid is for a World Expo in the city of Busan between 1 May and 31 October 2030 is under the theme “Transforming Our World, Navigating Toward a Better Future”.

Spurred by rapid growth in advanced, yet disruptive technologies, climate change, and the prolonged pandemic, humanity is facing an unprecedented period of change and transformation. The theme – Transforming Our World, Navigating Toward a Better Future – reflects the understanding that in times of change and crisis, humanity must pursue transformation to move toward a better future. World Expo 2030 Busan, Korea would be a special voyage toward a better future, the Korea Republic explained.

Meanwhile, the three sub-themes of the Expo embody Busan’s determination to surmount the challenges and to serve as an example for people around the world. First, Sustainable Living with Nature means overcoming the global climate change crisis and pursuing sustainable living with nature. Second, Technology for Humanity means resolving various side effects resulting from advanced technological development and promoting human happiness. The third, Platform for Caring and Sharing contains resolving various disparities between social classes and countries.

Proposed Site

World Expo 2030 Busan, Korea would be held for a total of 184 days. It is estimated that the total number of visits to Expo 2030 Busan would be 34.8 million. Expo 2030 Busan would take place in the North Port section of Busan, an area of approximately 3.4 million square metres inclusive of land and water.

Busan North Port, the site proposed for Expo 2030, was Korea’s first trading port. After its opening in 1876, it handled most of the country’s export and import shipments. However, with Busan New Port having now become the primary logistics hub, the space surrounding Busan North Port is being developed into a “global centre for a new marine industry.” The project proposes using the North Port area as the site for Expo 2030 and to return the infrastructure to businesses and citizens after the event.