We cannot predict the detail � but it could easily be a breakthrough capable of transforming the lives of millions, given the pedigree of this distinguished and ever more relevant event.

The concept was launched at the famous Great Exhibition during the reign of Queen Victoria back in 1851, at a time when scientific endeavour had reached fever pitch, but the 21st century equivalent will be addressing thoroughly modern concerns.

As a single example of past form, the Shanghai 2010 World Expo was the catalyst for major change within the sprawling city’s then heavy industrialised centre � creating in its place a thriving cultural and commercial district. Shanghai is now arguably the most exciting and dynamic city in Asia.

The 2015 theme is a huge one � “Feeding the Planet, Energy for Life� � guaranteed to engage some of the finest minds in the planet in the task of creating lasting solutions to the biggest challenges of modern times.

Hundreds of businesses, organisations and international delegations will visit Milan for what amounts to a unique opportunity for the global community to network ideas on an exponential scale.

Yet at its heart Expo will still convey all the glamour and excitement of that Victorian spectacular in the Crystal Palace, with innumerable exhibitions, cultural events and themed pavilions to enthral and inspire.

The event is staged every five years, and the competition to find the host city for 2020 is already well underway � with Dubai, shimmering jewel in the crown of the United Arab Emirates � working hard to bring World Expo to the Middle East for the first time.

Dubai has chosen as its bid theme “Connecting Minds, Creating the Future�, in the spirit of building international cooperation to meet global challenges � pooling endeavour to achieve major advances of the sort that can benefit the world.

For more about Expo, and the UAE bid, check out the Dubai Expo website at expo2020dubai.ae/en/our_bid