China is confident of success in the 2010 World Expo bid, said its
representatives awaiting the final results of the bid Tuesday.
The 132nd Assembly of the International Bureau of
Exhibitions (BIE) officially opened in Monaco Monday afternoon.
The votes will be cast this afternoon local time.
BIE President Gilles Noghes said there were many criteria to
consider when deciding on a winner.
"There is no overall important criteria, but each country decides
according to its own wishes. The project is very important, but
also the support of the government, the enthusiasm of the
population, and the overall economic and political value of each
candidates," Noghes said.
At
a press conference organized by the BIE, the Chinese delegation was
the first to meet with world media. Representatives from Poland,
Russia, South Korea and Mexico also spoke.
Yu
Xiaosong, chairman of the Trade Promotion Committee said all
competitors are strong and China respects fair and friendly
competition.
"China is capable enough to make the World Expo 2010 a great one
and the Chinese Government is committed to providing full financial
support to the event if Shanghai is granted the opportunity to host
the global event," said the Chinese Ambassador to France Wu
Jianmin.
One of the key principles of the Expo is maximizing social and
economic benefits. China's steadily growing economy is a strong
guarantee for the success of the event, said Wei Jianguo,
vice-minister of the economic and trade cooperation.
China has attracted the most foreign investment from developing
countries, about US$50 billion a year on average.
"If held in Shanghai, the expo will provide European countries and
the whole world a huge market and great business opportunities,"
Wei said.
Vice-Foreign Minister Wang Guangya said China's success will bring
to the world a strong message that not only developed countries but
also developing countries can hold the event.
China's efforts in trying to get the bid also show China's strong
support to the BIE and to all international organizations which
advocate peace, development, stability and prosperity, Wang
said.
"If chosen, Shanghai will try its best to support the least
developed countries and the developing countries in participating
in the event," said Shanghai Mayor Chen Liangyu.
Shanghai's confidence comes from five significant advantages -- the
country's continuously steady development, an interesting theme, an
appropriate site which will serve as a platform for the world to
communicate after the event, the expected huge number of visitors
and the pleasant environment, he said.
(China Daily December 3, 2002)