The World Exposition is not the same as a trade fair, in which mainly governments and international organizations participate. The World Exposition, on the other hand, displays the achievements and prospects in the economic, cultural and technological sectors, and is an event where people from all over the world come together to exchange experience and ideas, and learn from one another. Long known as the “economic, technological and cultural Olympic Games”, the World Exposition is held every five years, and has been held in developed countries since it first took place in London in 1851.
If Shanghai wins the bid for the 2010 World Exposition, China will be-the first developing country to host this major event. Hosting the exposition will have a positive impact on China, as China will not only learn from the experiences of other countries to further its reform and opening-up endeavor, but will also enhance its friendly relations with other countries. Besides, its role as hosting country will no doubt accelerate the development of world expositions elsewhere, which can promote worldwide economic, cultural and technological development.