day Yeosu Korea Expo 2012 will kick off on May 12 at the port city of Yeosu, with the participation of some 100 countries around the world, including Saudi Arabia. Yong-gi Shin, Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Jeddah, said this year's expo under the main theme “The Living Ocean and Coast”, conceptualizes the most desirable future for the ocean whose preservation and well-being is essentially linked with the survival of mankind. He told the Saudi Gazette that the expo “is intended not only to enhance the awareness of dangers faced by the sea but also to promote the necessity of international cooperation for turning these challenges into hopes for the future.” The environment-friendly event will also allow participants and visitors a hands-on experience in facilities at the “Energy Park” powered by renewable and clean energy sources like photovoltaic and wind power, hydrogen fuel-cell cars, electric cars, and online electric buses aimed at encouraging people to recognize the value of energy. Shin also said the Saudi participation shows the Kingdom's commitment and willingness to cooperate in the global effort to protect the ocean and marine life for the future survival of the world. Countries participating will share knowledge on the proper use of the ocean and recognize the need for cooperation in the marine sector. The Kingdom, through the Saudi Ports Authority, will have six booths during the entire expo, that will highlight its knowledge on the proper use of the ocean and coast and underscore the need for cooperation in the marine sector. The expo will be an opportunity for the international community to clearly understand the role of the ocean, coast and the challenge facing humanity caused by the reckless development of the ocean and coast. Shin further said a Yeosu Declaration will be jointly developed in consultation with marine experts from home and abroad, including those from international organizations. __
