The return is first in terms of image. EXPO 2000 reflected the image of the new Germany - modernised, democratic, highly cultivated in a spirit of serving the world, trying to implement more sustainable development. We as Europeans should be proud that Germany has taken this initiative. Among the innovations in which the International Advisory Board has been giving a helping hand is the extraordinary programme of the Worldwide Projects. These projects are part of the intended global dialogue.
Global dialogue happens in many fora and in many events in the world.
It is not an innovation itself, but at EXPO 2000 it was conducted in a spirit of partnership between young and the old and among people from the various parts of the world and it dealt with the main issues of sustainable development. The Theme Park and the national pavilions also served this issue under the motto 'Mankind, Nature, Technology'. So all in all, EXPO 2000 marked a new phase in EXPOs on which a balance has to be drawn. A very serious systematic evaluation should be made after closing the EXPO on the many positive aspects. The shortcomings must also be analysed.