Sharjah24 - WAM: Mali celebrated its National Day at Expo 2020 on Wednesday with a flag-raising ceremony at Al Wasl Plaza and vibrant performances by some of Mali’s most famous musicians.

Choguel Kokalla Maïga, Prime Minister of Mali, was welcomed by Najeeb Mohammed Al-Ali, Executive Director, Commissioner General’s Office, Expo 2020 Dubai.

Speaking on the occasion, Maïga, said, "The Mali Pavilion is a journey across the Niger River to discover the country’s cultural wealth and touristic wealth, but also the economic potential of living by the river. Building the future on a model of sustainability, resilience and ethics, the pavilion leads us to dive into the values of Mali, the foundational values of society that contemporary Mali brings together to contribute to universal civilisation s.

"The support from the UAE [throughout Expo 2020 Dubai] is hardly surprising given the friendly relations and solidarity that have existed between our two countries since the historic visit in 1985 of the UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and most recently of the opening of the Mali Embassy in Abu Dhabi. I hope the celebrations of Mali National Day will undoubtedly strengthen the friendly relations and solidarity."

Al-Ali said, "Mali’s participation highlights the country’s ancestral treasures, it’s fascinating history and burgeoning economy, while also giving visitors the opportunity to discover the warmth and hospitality of the Malian people, as well as the advancements and innovations driving the country’s present and future."

The celebrations kicked off with a flag-raising ceremony at Al Wasl Plaza and the playing of Mali and the UAE’ national anthems.

To mark the occasion, an exciting line-up of Mali’s most famous contemporary award-winning singers, performers, and musicians took the Dubai Millennium Amphitheatre stage at Expo 2020 Dubai to play traditional instruments.

The country’s pavilion welcomed guests to learn more about the 'land of opportunities' through a journey along the Niger River. Visitors can also view a piece by Malian Artist Abdoulaye Konaté whose work explores socio-political issues with textile-based installations.