Expo themes require united response

(ANSA) - Milan, May 21 - Agriculture Minister Maurizio Martina on Thursday called for unity in tackling the global issues raised by Expo Milan, which has the theme 'Feeding the planet, energy for life'. In particular he called on global fast food giant McDonald's and Italy's Slow Food movement dedicated to local traditions and products to bury the hatchet following recent divisions concerning the former's role as official sponsor of the world's fair. "We will invite Slow Food and McDonald's to reflect together on possible action, in order to join forces on the major themes of Expo," Martina said. "Expo is and remains a great opportunity for open confrontation also involving different points of view, but where it is fundamental to recognise what unites and what divides," the minister continued.
    "Let's not miss the opportunity to pursue a great team initiative," he said.
    Martina also defended the decision not to release Expo visitor numbers at the end of each day. "Instead it makes sense to ask everyone to help focus on the content, tell what is going on here, rather than waiting for the evening in order to say there were X or X minus 1 visitors," he said.