The World Expo national tour exhibition opened in Tianjin Municipality, fueling enthusiasm for Shanghai Expo preparations.

Shanghai Vice Mayor Yang Xiong said at the opening ceremony last week that a successful Expo requires the support and participation of provinces and municipalities. He expressed hope that Shanghai and Tianjin would cooperate closely in preparing for the Expo.

Ren Xuefeng, vice mayor of Tianjin, said the week-long exhibit and promotions would help residents get closer to Expo 2010 and energize preparation work.

A large statue of Shanghai Expo mascot Haibao was unveiled at Tianjin Museum.

The exhibition features about 200 photos and other exhibits to give a picture of World Expo history dating to 1851 and explain how Expos influenced civilization and culture.

A section showcases the awards that Tianjin's products won at past Expos. They include traditional folk art such as "Yangliuqing" (named after a town near Tianjin) New Year's pictures and painted figurines by famed sculptor Zhang Mingshan of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).

(Shanghai Daily April 28, 2008)