An Austrian official says the upcoming Shanghai Expo 2010 is very important to his country's development and "therefore we can't be absent" from the international event.

"China ... is a very important partner to Austria, no matter in the aspect of economy or politics. China will play an active role in the world's development in the future," said Birgit Murr, vice chief representative of Austria's section at the upcoming exposition. "Hence, it is very important for us to participate in the Shanghai Expo."

The Shanghai Expo will open in two weeks and Austria is at its last stage of preparation for the event.

Murr told Xinhua during a recent interview that the Expo will prove to be a platform for worldwide contact and understanding. Such exchanges, she said, also may be an opportunity for Austria to reverse the downturn trend of its economy.

Murr said there was "not a question whether Austria wants to participate in the Expo, but a conclusion that Austria must attend."

Austria has invested about 16 million euros (about 21.6 million U.S. dollars) in the construction of a pavilion in the Expo Garden.

The inspiration of Austria's pavilion came from a sailing boat, with a tactile impression of porcelain in the pavilion's interior design.

The main structure of the pavilion is expressed by a Chinese character of "human" and the shadow projected by the pavilion was the initial of the state's name "A," a clever combination of cultural elements of the two countries.

"Austria hopes to show its characteristics through the Expo 2010 including fine views, good environment, unique culture and high quality of life," Murr said.

Austria's pavilion will use 33 computers and 27 overhead projectors to provide a personal experience of crossing from high mountains to forests, passing woody hills along a river before finally arriving in Austria's cities.

Austria's pavilion will also play host to a variety of cultural performances and celebratory events during the Expo.

"I think the Expo is a global stage, which is just like a big family that people from all over the world meet here," Murr said.

Murr said Austria's preparation for the Shanghai Expo began in January 2009 and the design of its pavilion, which will interpret the theme of the Expo's theme "Better City, Better Life," was revised several times before construction began last July.

Murr expressed appreciation for China's preparations and Shanghai's reputation as a leading international city would be strengthened by hosting the Expo.

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