Source: CCTV.com 04-30-2009 08:56

The global economic downturn has not dampened the enthusiasm of participants at the 2010 Shanghai World Expo. Over 230 countries and organizations have confirmed they will take part, making it the largest expo in history.

Despite the financial crisis, the Chilean team decided to expand its show for the world expo, by establishing a pavilion highlighting the best of Chile's unique attractions.

With increased investment, the Chilean team leader says it's worthwhile putting on a bigger show for the expo.

Chief delegate of Chilean team said, "A pavilion for us is the best way to display every aspect of our country. It will display the specialties of our country, which include some famous wood-products, and also hold a series of cultural and economic activities."

Many other countries are also planning to expand their presence at the expo. Countries like Japan are preparing for their largest show ever.

But a bigger pavilion means more money in a tight economic climate. But for Japan, funding is not a big problem, thanks to the support of Japanese companies.

Delegate from Japan team said, "Now there are 5,000 to 6,000 Japanese companies in Shanghai, and they think the World Expo could be a good way to help survive the crisis. So many companies have expectations of the Chinese market and decided to participate in the world expo."

The United States is now coming under focus, as the Expo opening day gets closer. The country has been hit hard by the financial crisis, and has not signed an official agreement to take part in the expo. There is no chance of government funding, so organizers are trying to attract investment from private companies.

The Shanghai World Expo will showcase pavilions from almost one hundred countries, and construction work has already begun on many of them. Among the participants are 17 countries that do not have diplomatic ties with China.