The International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) has approved an application from the region of Hatay in Turkey to host a ‘B Class’ International Horticultural Exhibition in 2021. Expo 2021 Hatay was approved by AIPH on 23 January 2017.
With a theme of ‘Garden of Civilisations’ the Expo will take place in Hatay, Turkey from April to October 2021. It will cover around 30 hectares and is expected to attract 2.5 million visitors.
Hatay has a diverse and ancient history. The region includes the ancient city of Antakya (Antioch) which has for centuries provided a place for different races and religions to live together in harmony. As part of the ancient ‘silk road’ Hatay opened up Asia and the Middle East to the Mediterranean Sea.
The proposed Expo will promote the rich native flora, including medicinal and aromatic plants and aims to develop Hatay as an international centre for the use of plant remedies, horticultural therapy and eco-tourism. The Expo will also use horticulture and gardens to demonstrate to the world how this region brings together civilisations and cultures.
Commenting on the approval AIPH Secretary General, Mr. Tim Briercliffe said: “AIPH members were delighted to approve this Expo which will assist the development of a beautiful region of Turkey. This region of Turkey has been a key player in supporting those displaced by war in other countries. This Expo gives a promise of hope for the future and there can be no better way of doing that than with a magnificent International Horticultural Expo.”
The Mayor of Hatay, Dr. Lütfü Savaş led the bid to AIPH and was present for the announcement of the approval. Commenting on Hatay’s success he said: “By realising the garden EXPO 2021 in Hatay, our city will act as a living laboratory. We will prepare an innovative and exemplary, world class Garden Expo which will afterwards be converted into an educational botanical park dedicated to plant therapy, health and rehabilitation with an emphasis on nature and culture based sustainability solutions for city growth.
As a region we are focusing our strategy towards becoming a Well City/Smart City and all our masterplans are designed to reach this objective. Expo 2021 Hatay, with its theme of “Gardens of Civilisations” will be a great opportunity for us to reach our target.
AIPH Board Member and President of the Turkish Ornamental Plants and Products Exporters Association, Mr. Osman Bağdatlıoğlu said: “Following the recent Expo 2016 Antalya I am pleased that Turkey will host another Expo approved by AIPH. As Turkey becomes more and more important in ornamental horticulture this gives another global showcase for this important industry.”
