Plans have been unveiled for the China Pavilion at the 2015 World Expo in Milan. This is the first time China has opened a pavilion overseas. Han Peng takes a look at what visitors can expect.

The shape of China’s Pavilion resembles billowing wheat fields.

With the key words "land for hope, food for life", the general theme is food safety and sustainable agricultural development.

Wang Jinzhen, chief gov't representative of China Pavilion, said, "The 2015 Milan World Expo is focused on modern agriculture. China is the world’s most populous country facing huge challenges and also amazing progress in making food available for each person. By opening this pavilion, we hope to demonstrate our concerns and achievements and boost understanding with the world."

In 2010, China successfully held the Shanghai World Expo.

But this is the first time China has opened a national pavilion overseas at an expo.

One highlight of the design is its pursuit of harmony between modernity and nature.

Perfectly calculating Milan’s sunlight, the pavilion uses cutting innovation to maximize sunshine over electric lighting.

Covering an area of nearly 5,000 square meters, the pavilion is the expo’s second largest, after Germany’s.

And China’s high-profile participation has attracted great interest in Italy.

Ding Changfeng, deputy CEO of Wanke Group, said, "We are really excited to have this opportunity to promote our "made in China" brand. As a Chinese company, we are trying to have more of a voice in the international market."

The Milan World Expo will be held between May and October next year, with over 260 countries and international organizations taking part. The Italian authorities are expecting to receive at least 20 million visitors.