China marks 1-year countdown to World Expo

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Source: CCTV.com | 05-01-2009 12:02

China has started the one-year countdown to the 2010 World Expo that will be held in its financial hub, Shanghai. A national launching ceremony has just taken place in the capital, Beijing.

Chinese top legislator Wu Bangguo (R) applauds after  starting a year-long countdown timer installed at  Tian'anmen Square in the heart of Beijing, capital of  China, for the Shanghai World Expo to be held on May 1, 2010. (Xinhua/Li Tao)

Top legislator, Wu Bangguo, launched the countdown clock at the Tian'anmen Square in the heart of Beijing.

Organizers say the ceremony shows China's commitment for a successful and splendid World Expo, scheduled to open in Shanghai on May 1st, 2010.

Wu Bangguo says the government is going all out for the preparations.

Wu Bangguo said, "It's been one of the Chinese people's great aspirations to hold a world expo. We're looking forward to experiencing cultural originalities and technological progress, and exchanging ideas for development with people from other countries."

Organizers say preparations are going smoothly.

So far, more than 230 countries and international organizations have confirmed their participation.

Editor:Liu Fang