On 8th March, Jifei Wan, the chairman of CCPIT attended the press conference with the theme of “Entering Expo, Enjoying Expo” held by the CPPCC session. In the conference, he briefed on preparation work of Shanghai Expo and answered questions raised by the journalists. 2012 Shanghai Expo will officially open on the May 1 this year, lasting for 184 days.

According to Jifei Wan, 192 countries and more than 50 international organizations have confirmed their participation in the Expo. 50 Chinese and foreign companies have signed contract to set up 18 enterprise pavilions. There are also more than 50 Urban Best Practices Areas. Now the focus of Shanghai Expo preparation has been shifted from arrangement to Expo operation, especially tourists reception. The Expo Park has altogether 13 entrance and exit gates. 5 undergrounds and 90 bus lines will be used together to facilitate passengers’ travel.

According to Wan, Shanghai Expo has four bright spots. Innovation is the first one. Countries and international organizations design and build their pavilions in a creative fashion, showcasing their cultural features.

The second bright spot is culture expression. Besides visiting pavilions, tourists can enjoy the art performing and attend the series forums held during the Expo period. Up till now, nearly 200 countries, international organizations and cities have prepared more than 1000 programs, which are going to be presented in the Expo for over 20,000 times. Activities such as “Pavilion Day” and “Honor Day” will be organized by the participated countries and international organizations. Each and every one of the Chinese domestic pavilions will also organize their one-week activities. In addition, “Expo Forum” will also promote the exchanges between different cultures.

The third highlight is technology. Countries involved will present their most sophisticated technologies which include transparent concrete, generating floor, solar power airplane, universal camera, etc.

The fourth highlight is development models. Many good models will be found in the Urban Best Practices Areas.