Source: www.expo2010.cn
05-08-2009 14:40
Special Report: 2010 Shanghai Expo CountdownNew Zealand commissioner general for the 2010 World Expo in Shanghai, Phillip Gibson, said his country will invest 30 million NZ dollars (US$16.8 million) to build a 2,000-square-meter pavilion to focus on its "Cities of Nature: Living between Land and Sky" experience.
In a recent interview, Gibson said he believed the Shanghai Expo will historically be seen as an epic event. New Zealand's much larger commitment to this Expo reflects the fast growing ties between China and New Zealand, he said.
"That is one of the reasons why we were among the first to accept the invitation to participate. The resources and organization that China is committing to the Expo are massive. New Zealand has been very grateful for all the cooperation we have been receiving," he said.
"We hope that ours will be a strong contribution to this historic event," he added.
New Zealand announced its decision to participate in the Shanghai Expo during Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao's official visit to New Zealand in April, 2006.
"So planning and preparation have been underway for a good three years now. Milestones have included the selection of the Pavilion concept and design in late 2007, our signing of the official participation contract in May 2008 and the recent moves to start actual construction on site." he said.
