The Shanghai World Expo 2010, scheduled to open next May in China's financial hub, would be a platform for countries, organizations and enterprises to showcase the latest innovations in urban development, Vice Premier Wang Qishan said Thursday.

"The world expo would help enhance understanding and friendship in the international community and strengthen joint efforts to fight against world trade protectionism," Wang, who is also a member of the expo organizing committee, told a preparatory meeting for the event.

There had been examples of countries seeing their economy, technology and culture advanced by holding world's fairs, and the Shanghai World Expo would help China's economic growth, according to Wang.

He urged organizers to step up their work and ensure the smooth operation of the event.

Major progress had been made in preparations for the World Expo, said Yu Zhengsheng of the organizing committee. Yu is also Party chief in Shanghai.

Yu pledged to provide better services to all Expo participants.

So far, 185 countries and 47 international organizations have confirmed participation in the Expo, which will run from May 1 through Oct. 31. The event is expected to attract about 70 million visitors from around the world.

(Xinhua News Agency April 24, 2009)