Former Indian envoy to lead Expo 2020 Dubai effort

Navdeep Suri, a retired Indian diplomat, has been given a new role

Navdeep Suri will co-chair in India’s Expo 2020 Dubai committee. Reem Mohammed / The National

The former Indian ambassador to the UAE will spearhead the country’s preparation committee for the Expo 2020 Dubai.

Navdeep Suri, a recipient of the UAE’s highest civilian honour the Order of Zayed II, has been given the responsibility of co-chair in India’s Expo 2020 Dubai committee, according to state news agency Wam.

Recognised in the country for his contribution to strengthening relations between the two nations, Mr Suri retired from government service in October after a final posting in the Emirates.

"We hope to curate some wonderful content that will showcase our country’s achievements and diversity at the India pavilion," Mr Suri said.

He will work with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, the trade partner of the Indian government at the world fair.

Sangita Reddy, president of the federation, said Mr Suri’s input would help show the country’s achievements within the pavilion.

India has allocated $50 million for the expo to build a pavilion with a distinctive interlaced mesh facade and will display a towering image of non-violence leader Mahatma Gandhi.

The country’s history will be part of its expo story alongside displays of current projects in various sectors from technology and solar energy to agriculture and design.

Expo 2020 Dubai will be held over six months starting in October with more than 190 countries participating.