The Bureau of Shanghai World Expo Coordination will open about 16 pavilions for enterprise participants who "have a healthy international image and have been active in the construction of China's modernization," Oriental Morning Post said today.

"The 16 pavilions are mainly for renowned companies around the world, who are willing to and able to show themselves and the idea of this expo," said an official from the bureau. "And we expect to see more Chinese enterprise applicants."

The 2010 Shanghai World Expo welcomed its 63rd participants, the Republic of Palau, on August 7. Palau is the first country applicant that hasn't established diplomat relations with China, said the report.

Meanwhile, the city will hold a forum at the end of next month, which will allow experts from home and abroad to offer more advice and suggestions towards the grand event.

"This expo will focus on how to create a harmonious city, which includes topics on 'the past and the future,' 'human beings and nature' and 'the relation between people," said the official from the bureau.

"It's a creative topic in the history of the World Expo, and will draw much attention worldwide," the official said.

Construction of the expo park will kick off this month, and that for the pavilions, museums and village will begin early next year, said the report.

"A 29-hectare green area will be set aside in the expo park along the Huangpu River, as a new 'green lung' of the city," the official said.

(Shanghai Daily August 15, 2006)