China's largest industrial and commercial city : Shanghai

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In today's introduction to Chinese provinces, autonomous regions, and municipalities, we take a look at Shanghai.

Shanghai, at the mouth of the Yangzte River, is China's largest industrial and commercial city and a bright pearl shining on China's east coast.

Shanghai's history can be traced back more than 700 years. But it wasn't until 1843 that it became an open trade center.

From the small fishing village at the bank of the Huangpu river, Shanghai has grown into an international metropolis covering 6,440 square kilometers that's home to 18 million people.

Its fine location, rich resources and flourishing economy have drawn numerous people from overseas to settle in Shanghai.

The cultural exchanges between east and west have forged the city's unique character of being open-minded to everything and encouraging enterprise.

Shanghai is the host city of the 2010 World Expo.

More than 200 countries, regions and international organizations will participate in the 184-day event.

It's estimated a record 17 million people will visit the expo.

Without doubt, the Shanghai World Expo will be yet another development opportunity for China and a grand party for the whole world.