At 6 p.m. on Sunday, April 24, U.S. President Barack Obama will appear as one of the six speakers at Hannover Messe’s opening ceremony, representing the Unites States as this year's show's partner country. He will also attend the traditional opening tour on the morning of Monday, April 25, with German Chancellor, Angela Merkel.
"President Obama’s participation sends a special signal about HANNOVER MESSE’s international appeal," says Dr. Jochen Köckler, member of the managing board at Deutsche Messe AG. "In the midst of its reindustrialization, the United States has become a very attractive business partner for industry. For German machinery and plant manufacturers, the USA is once again the number one market."
Attendees are advised to arrive early for Sunday’s and Monday’s events to avoid delays and crowds. In addition, only the North and West entrances will be open for entry, as the East 2 and South entrances will be closed to visitors on Monday morning.
For security reasons, all luggage and large bags must be checked or left at the staffed cloakrooms at the North and West entrances while the President and German leaders are in attendance. If at all possible, it is recommended to visitors that they leave bags and luggage in their vehicle or hotel.
Also speaking at the opening ceremony will be Stefan Schostok, Lord Mayor of the City of Hannover; Prof. Dr. Johanna Wanka, Federal Minister of Education and Research; Michael Ziesemer, President of the German Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers’ Association; and Dr. Angela Merkel, Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany.