CHP Chairman Sees Izmir's Chance To Host Expo As High

ISTANBUL - Deniz Baykal, the chairman of the main opposition Republican People`s Party (CHP), said Saturday it is difficult to think about a candidate other than Aegean province of Izmir to host EXPO 2015.
Consisting of 140 members, the Bureau of International Exhibitions (BIE) will make its decision on March 31st, 2008. Izmir is competing with Italy`s Milan to host EXPO 2015, which is cited as the third largest event in the world in terms of economic and cultural impact, after the FIFA World Cup and the Olympic Games. EXPO 2015 is the next scheduled World`s Fair after EXPO 2012.
"This is a geography in which big religions have been experienced in the world," he told a meeting of solidarity for EXPO 2015 in Istanbul.
Baykal said Izmir is one of the Turkish cities that pioneer rapid change, transformation and modernization.
"Izmir is extraordinarily beautiful, its historical background is perfect," he told.
On the other hand, Fener Greek Orthodox Patriarchate Bartholomew said, "we think EXPO 2015 should take place in Izmir, and we support the bid."
(BRC)