Beijing is due to host the fifth session of China Beijing International Sci-Tech Industries Expo and China Beijing International High-Tech Week from May 23 to 28.

The event is expected to focus on the opportunities and challenges arising from Beijing's successful bid to host the 2008 Olympic Games and from China's entry into the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Chu Xiangyin - secretary-general of the Beijing Sub-Council of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, the event's sponsor - said the event will involve exhibitions, professional forums and lectures, as well as trade talks.

First held in 1988, the event has become an annual gathering for government officials, international organizations, experts and entrepreneurs related to the high-tech industries.

"All the activities during this session will be concerned with the 2008 Olympic Games and WTO entry and will be aimed at providing suggestions for the government, offering ideas for enterprises, promoting technological applications and business co-operation," said Chu.

Forums on the WTO and China's economy, the WTO and China's capital market as well as on the technology and economy of the sports industry have attracted the attention of officials and experts.

Exhibitions on a green Olympics and trade talks on key projects related to the 2008 Olympic Games are expected to be particular attractions at the event.

Organizing committee sources revealed that more than 30 government and business delegations from Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Russia, South Korea, Britain and the United States had registered so far to attend the event.

A special website has been launched to offer an information exchange platform for participants and visitors.

(China Daily March 6, 2002)