In Spain, the World Expo 2008 on water has started

Zaragoza (Spain) - The world exhibition Expo 2008 opened today to the public in the Spanish city of Zaragoza, with its main theme being the state and influence of water resources in the world. The Czech Republic is not among the 105 participating countries. The opening ceremony on Friday evening was attended by King Juan Carlos I of Spain and his family, along with a number of other personalities.
    The issues surrounding water link Madrid to sustainable development in the world. "I believe that the hope for a new vision for water, which Expo in Zaragoza addresses, is one of the greatest needs of the world," declared Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Zapatero during the opening ceremony. He then watched a grand performance with fireworks and giant puppets with 5,000 other guests.
    2,000 invited experts will engage in organized debates over the next few weeks on issues, proposals, and possible solutions related to water challenges on Earth, such as in relation to climate change, healthcare, geopolitics, and education. The results of the debates will be assessed and presented to the world public on September 11 in the form of the so-called Zaragoza Charter.
    The exhibition covers an area of 25 hectares along the banks of the Ebro River, where countries, regions, and organizations have built 140 pavilions. There is reportedly the largest aquarium in Europe and a 76-meter high water tower.
    In addition to the ceremonial national days of the participating countries, the organizers promise around 5,000 different performances, including a concert by American singer-songwriter Bob Dylan on June 23. It is expected that around 6.5 million visitors will arrive by the conclusion of the event on September 14, with about 15 percent coming from abroad. Admission for a day costs 35 euros (847 crowns).