Expo 2020 Dubai comes alive with Caribbean color, sound during Grenada’s National Day

Grenada celebrated its Expo 2020 Dubai National Day in colorful fashion as the “Island of Spice” provided the Caribbean flavor at Al Wasl Plaza, according to the Emirate News Agency (ENA).

ENA reported on Sunday that a team of dancers, musicians and two vocal artists led “exotic cultural performances”, including reggae, soul and soca vocal artist, Thamara St. Bernard Neckles.

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence and Commissioner-General of Expo 2020 Dubai, welcomed Dame Cecile La Grenade, Governor-General of Grenada, and Oliver Joseph, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Grenada, ENA said.

“Under a theme that focuses on the movement of people, culture, products and services, Grenada’s student-designed pavilion sheds light on a business-friendly nation with ample opportunities,” Sheikh Nahyan said. “Visitors will discover why this is a sought-out tourist destination is a country of rich history and culture passed down through generations.

“We hope that, through Grenada’s presence at Expo 2020 Dubai, we will be able to build on the existing partnerships between our two countries and explore the potential for further collaboration in various areas of mutual interest,” he added.

Joseph said, “Grenada’s rich history, culture and heritage is as diverse and integral as our landscape.

“The natural beauty of our islands is great,” he said. “Investment opportunities are born across a wide range of sectors, particularly in tourism and hospitality, health and wellness services, education services, and business and energy development.

“I take this opportunity to express deep appreciation to the UAE for the extraordinary efforts in making Grenada’s participation in this Expo 2020 Dubai a reality,” Joseph added. “Additionally, let me express sincere appreciation and gratitude to the government and people of the UAE for their cooperation and efforts that have contributed significantly to Grenada’s fight against COVID-19.”

At Al Wasl Plaza, ENA said “lively beats were driving the music of Thamara St. Bernard Neckles, followed by Dash, who has been rated Groovy Soca Monarch King of Grenada on three occasions.”

Renowned for his upbeat and lively performances, ENA said Dash “had the crowd around the Al Wasl Plaza cheering and dancing along.”

ENA said both artists were joined by an ensemble of dancers and musicians, “and helped to bring Grenada’s unique sounds to Expo 2020 Dubai.”

The Grenada Pavilion boasts an iconic piece of spicy art featuring nutmeg to highlight the island’s love of and connection with the spices “that give the nation its unique fragrance,” ENA said.

“The pavilion reflects Grenada’s lifestyle, with its tranquil waters,” it said. “Visitors can also take a colorful tour of the ‘Island of Spice’, enjoy calypso, soca, folk, steel pan, the big drum and jab jab rhythms, or experience the ‘bean-to-bar’ chocolate process for which Grenada is famous.”

ENA said National and Honor Days at Expo 2020 Dubai are “moments to celebrate each of Expo’s 200-plus international participants, shining a light on their culture and achievements and showcasing their pavilions and programming.”

It said each features a flag-raising ceremony at the Stage of Nations in Al Wasl Plaza, followed by speeches and cultural performances.