Meet the Luxembourg Pavilion Team: H.E. Robert Lauer
“COMING TOGETHER IS A BEGINNING; KEEPING TOGETHER IS PROGRESS; WORKING TOGETHER IS SUCCESS.”
We are pleased to introduce you to the people who are working on the Expo 2020 in Dubai. For 6 unforgettable months, they will ensure that the message of the Luxembourg Pavilion resonates in all its vibrancy beyond the United Arab Emirates.
Today you will meet H.E. Robert Lauer, Luxembourg’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates.
- What is your role in the project of LUXEMBOURG @ EXPO 2020 DUBAI?
While I have no formal role at the Luxembourg Pavilion as such, I am a frequent visitor and an avid promoter of the Luxembourg Pavilion.
In many ways, the fantastic Luxembourg Pavilion helps me in my task of « putting Luxembourg on the map » and informing the Emirati public, as well as visitors from all over the world to Expo2020 about Luxembourg and about what Luxembourg has to offer.
You could consider the Luxembourg Pavilion at Expo2020 as our Embassy to the world.
- What is your favorite aspect of the project LUXEMBOURG @ EXPO 2020 DUBAI?
Undoubtedly it is the way in which this project has brought together people from many backgrounds and nationalities, not only during the planning and construction phases but also right now, all united in the common aim of (re)presenting Luxembourg in its diversity, beauty, innovative entrepreneurship and sustainability.
- What is your favorite part of the Luxembourg Pavilion?
Well, the child in me will tell you it is the slide of course! But then again, my patriotic cords are always touched when the screens of Luxembourg citizens welcoming you into the Pavilion in many languages turn red, white and blue.
And I would go amiss if I were not to mention the incredible film presenting Luxembourg’s rich industrial and entrepreneurial history. I could go on…
- What is the most important lesson you have learned in the context of LUXEMBOURG @ EXPO 2020 DUBAI?
Well, my involvement with the project has only been very short-term but I nevertheless realize that timely preparation and extensive cooperation are necessary for the successful implementation of a project of this scale.
And of course, adaptability and improvisation, when, for whatever reason, things don’t go as you initially planned.
- Any special events you’re particularly looking forward to?
The highlight for me over these six months of Expo2020 will undoubtedly be Luxembourg Day on 23 January 2022!
I still have a long list of pavilions to visit and I’m certain that our hosts will put on a grandiose show to mark the end of this wonderful adventure on 31 March 2022.
- What can EXPO 2020 DUBAI do for our future?
Expo2020 has been already been a turning point in the sense that it has been the first large-scale participatory event since the outbreak of the pandemic. It has shown us how we can continue meeting on a global scale in spite of the virus. Expo2020 has also been marked by the issues of global warming and sustainability.
I expect these themes to become even more consequential at Expo 2025 Osaka. I am confident that the Luxembourg Pavilion in Osaka will address these issues by its design and by its content.
