25 March 2005 will mark the inauguration in Japan - in the town of Nagoya - of the World Expo of Aichi, in which 110 countries will take part. Italy will have a pavilion of its own. The general theme of the exhibition is the "wisdom of nature". In this framework, our country aims to highlight one of the proposed sub-themes, i.e. "The Art of Living".
This is an invitation for anyone interested to send an adequately detailed proposal containing ideas to be used as a basis for the contents of the Italian pavilion.
In this respect, we recommend that the following aspects be borne in mind:

1) Reference should be made to our country's history, culture, traditions and characteristics, considering (i) the longstanding experience of Guilds of Arts and Crafts and (ii) elements inherent in modern-day Italy and the country's technological potential;

2) Special attention should be paid to the quality of everyday life, the environment and sustainable development, focusing on what is known in the language of communication as "Slow Life", in contrast with the frantic rhythm of certain social systems.
The collective values and solidarity of our community should also be stressed;

3) The civilisation, light, colours and atmosphere of Mare Nostrum should be highlighted, inasmuch as the Italian pavilion will be part of an exhibition area dedicated to Mediterranean countries.

The working papers containing the ideas (written in Italian or English) must be mailed to the address indicated below. The deadline, originally set at 25 September 2003, has been extended until 10 October 2003. The papers will be examined by a Commission formed by representatives from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Productive Activities, Cultural Assets, Economy and Finance, Environment, University and Research, and Farming Policies, as well as representatives from the Conference of Presidents of Regions and Self-governing Provinces, I.C.E. (Italian Foreign Trade Institute) and E.N.I.T. (Italian Tourism Board). They will all play a very important role in organising Italy's presence in Aichi.

The Commission will make its final decision in respect of the winning proposal, which will receive a reward of

5000.00 euro

Information on the Expo 2005 in Aichi is available on the web site www.expo2005.or.jp

COMMISSARIATO GENERALE
Expo 2005 - Aichi, Giappone

Piazza Venezia, 11 - 00187 Roma
Tel ++39.06.6784496 Fax ++39.06.69380179
asitagia@ats.it