France has officially signed its participation contract for Expo 2030 Riyadh, becoming the first country to complete this step in preparations for the international exhibition, which will be held in the Saudi capital from 1 October 2030 to 31 March 2031.
The contract was signed in Paris on the sidelines of the visit to France by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, in the presence of Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah and Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) Secretary General Dimitri Kerkentzes, according to a report by the Saudi Press Agency.
The agreement was signed by Eng. Talal Al Marri, CEO of Expo 2030 Riyadh, and Jacques Maire, Chairman of the French exhibitions company. The contract formally establishes France's participation in the exhibition and allows it to complete its preparations for its pavilion, visitor experience, programs and operations during the six-month Expo.
Talal Al Marri said France's signing as the first country to complete its participation contract marks a step forward in preparations for the exhibition, as confirmations of international participation continue to grow.
For his part, Jacques Maire said the French pavilion will be located in the "Planet" zone under the theme "Under One Sky," with a design based on 4 key elements: sky, earth, fire and water.
He added that the pavilion will allow French companies to showcase their expertise and capabilities, particularly in protecting the planet and environmental sustainability, while offering visitor experiences and boosting cooperation opportunities.
The step follows the signing of the agreement on privileges and benefits granted to international participants between Saudi Arabia and the BIE, as development of the Expo site and operational preparations continue.
Expo 2030 Riyadh is set to host more than 200 official participants and is expected to receive 42 million visits during the event, held under the theme "Foresight for Tomorrow."
The exhibition will feature national pavilions, cultural programs, interactive experiences and innovation initiatives, while organizers plan to transform the site after the Expo into a global village and a permanent hub for innovation and knowledge.
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