General Information

International expositions provide unique opportunities to present to the world, in partnership with provincial and territorial governments and the private sector, Canada's accomplishments as a country which fosters ingenuity, achievement, innovation, excellence and leadership. They enhance our sense of identity and pride and help connect Canadians to one another and to the world.

What are International Expositions?

International Expositions are defined by the Bureau international des expositions / International bureau of expositions ( B.I.E ) as a forum for the exchange of information which fosters better understanding amongst people. Each nation is invited to share its ideas and to demonstrate the progress it has achieved on a theme determined by the exposition organizer.

The B.I.E., a Paris-based organization of 91 member nations, regulates the frequency and quality of international expositions.

Canada's participation in International Expositions is coordinated by the International Expositions Directorate of the Department of Canadian Heritage.

Federal Commitment to Participation in International Expositions

The Government of Canada is clearly committed to advancing Canada's place in the world. Canada must, therefore, pursue effective strategies to promote its interests and project its values globally. International expositions are unique forums where Canadians share the stage with the world's best and showcase to the world what the Canadian model of society can achieve. The federal government's commitment to financially support and participate in international expositions will lead to significant benefits and legacies for Canadians.

By agreeing to participate in all upcoming expositions and by providing a stable funding framework for future expositions, the Government will continue to ensure a more strategic and effective approach to planning its participation in these events. Longer term planning will ensure broader-based participation and consultations and more solid partnerships with Canadian citizens, other levels of government and the private sector to help develop Canada's presence.

Organizing Canada's Participation

Canada participates in International Expositions to showcase its cultural achievements, linguistic duality, diversity and values, as well as its technological and scientific expertise in a broad range of areas. Participation is coordinated by the International Expositions Directorate of the Department of Canadian Heritage.

Mandate

The role of the International Expositions Directorate is threefold:

• to represent Canada as a member nation at the Bureau international des expositions / International bureau of expositions (B.I.E.).
• to plan, implement and manage Canada’s participation in expositions held abroad
• to fulfill the requirements of the B.I.E. convention when expositions are held in Canada

History

Canada has a long tradition of participation in International Expositions, having taken part since their inception in 1851.

Canada has achieved a reputation of excellence for its participation at international expositions. Canada has also hosted two successful international expositions: Expo '67 in Montreal and Expo '86 in Vancouver.

Canada most recently took part in Expo 2000 in Hannover, Germany.

Nature of Canada's Participation

Canada's Involvement
Canada's participation in International Expositions consists of:

1. Canada Pavilion
   The pavilion features a fully-integrated thematic experience with leading edge technology and exhibitry.
2. Complementary Programs
   Equally important are the cultural, trade and public affairs programs undertaken in the host country. Canadian Heritage works closely with other government departments and key stakeholders to develop these programs.