U.S. Ambassador to China Jon Huntsman told China.org.cn of his affection for Shanghai and his admiration of the city's rapid progress, while attending the opening ceremony of the U.S. pavilion at World Expo 2010 on May 1.

Ambassador Huntsman, who first visited Shanghai in the 1980s, said he was impressed by the speed of development of the city.

"I never would have guessed a city would transform itself so quickly. I loved Shanghai 30 years ago. I love Shanghai today. It has transformed itself into one of the leading cities in the world, becoming a financial center and a cultural center. It's a very, very exciting place," Huntsman said.

Ambassador Huntsman said Expos are a way for cities to introduce themselves to the world.

He contrasted the 2010 World Expo with past Expos held in New York, Philadelphia and Chicago, which relied on print media to spread the message.

"Shanghai today is being introduced to the world with all kinds and forms of communication – instantaneous and immediate. The whole world will be able to see a new Shanghai," he said.

Huntsman said he hoped the U.S. pavilion would be a window for people around the world to learn more about the U.S..

He said the Sino-U.S. relationship is one of the world's most important bilateral relationships, and that a successful Expo is important for both countries.

The ambassador described the main theme of the U.S. pavilion as "the future, which includes new concepts like sustainability and making for a greener future for all Americans, and then influencing the world in that regard."

But he added that the pavilion also reflects traditional American values such as "commitment to diversity and innovation."

1. China.org.cn: I know that you have been here in Shanghai 20 years ago and this time when you arrive in Shanghai, what's the impression you have of Shanghai? >>>

2. China.org.cn: The US has held several Expos, and in your understanding what did these Expos bring to the US and in your understanding what are the most significant Expos held by the United States? >>>

3. China.org.cn: For the Shanghai Expo 2010, the US came late to decide to participate in this Expo. We heard that was because of the lack of fund so we'd like to know about the inside story about this? >>>

4. China.org.cn: May 1st marks the opening ceremony of the US pavilion and many visitors would like to pay a visit to the pavilion. We'd like you to introduce to the visitors about this pavilion. What are the features and what are the highlights? >>>

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