191 countries and regions and 48 international organizations have confirmed they will take part in the Shanghai World Expo. All of the participants are aiming to show off unique cultural themes and features at the pavilions.
France is constructing a Versailles-style hanging garden. While its neighbor, the Netherlands, is building its pavilion into a "happy street" with 17 different houses.
The pavilion of the United Arab Emirates looks like waves, and the Japanese pavilion shows its concern for the environment. And the UK has built its pavilion as a shining magic box. All the constructions are inspiring. Although battered by the financial crisis, countries' enthusiasm has not been dampened.
The US has also appointed a chief delegate to the world expo. The country's 6,000-square meter pavilion is also ready for construction.
Hong Hao, director-general of Bureau of Shanghai World Expo coordination said, "The permanent pavilions of the expo will be completed by the end of the year, while the leasing pavilions and the joint Museum by the end of October."
All displays will be finished by next March, and trial operations will start in April.
