E. Java joins Hanover expo

SURABAYA (Antara): Indonesia's East Java province is taking part in the ongoing World Expo 2000 in Hanover, Germany.

"East Java's participation in the event aims to strengthen its relations with other countries, particularly to encourage foreign businessmen to do business in the province," East Java Governor Imam Utomo told provincial legislators here Thursday.

Utomo said the province has involved small- and medium-scale businesses in the expo, which runs until Sept. 30.

"Some artists will also perform traditional dances during the event, including the Merak, Banjar Kemuning and Praban Madura dances," he said.

An "urban thematic" animation which shows the processing of waste in East Java, activities at the Tanjung Perak port, and other development projects in the province will also be presented, he added.

During the event, Utomo said, the province's main export commodities will be exhibited -- batik cloths, rattan and wood products, and leather handicrafts.