1.The Assembly notes that Expo'98 - the last major world exhibition of the 20th century - will be held in Lisbon (Portugal), from 22 May to 30 September 1998. It will mark the 500th anniversary of the meeting of civilisations that followed the discovery of the Indian sea route by the Portuguese navigator Vasco de Gama, in 1498.
2.The main theme of Expo'98 will be "The oceans - a heritage for the future". The theme will be analysed and debated from all angles: educational, cultural, scientific, ecological, economic and artistic. This debate will not only seek to evaluate existing knowledge of the subject but will above all contribute to the creation of new systems for managing the world's oceans and to sustained efforts to preserve the ecological balance, by laying down criteria for the rational use of marine resources.
3.The organisers have decided to build the pavilions and allow participating countries and international organisations to use them free of charge. Over 140 countries are ultimately expected to take part. 118 countries and several international organisations - such as the European Union, the United Nations and the International Olympic Committee - and non-governmental organisations have already confirmed that they will participate. Some 15 million visitors are expected.