英语文摘:Shanghai readies for World Expo

SHANGHAI, April 28 (Xinhua) -- After nearly eight years of preparation and six rounds of trial operation, Shanghai is ready for the 184-day World Exposition which opens May 1.

Some 189 countries and 57 international organizations have confirmed their participation in the largest-ever expo which is expected to attract more than 70 million visitors from all over the world.

During the expo trial, more than one million people savored the charms of the marvelous pavilions at the World Expo site.

Yang Xiong, executive vice mayor of Shanghai, said Wednesday, through the expo trial, the organizers gained experience, found problems and made adjustments.

"We examined facilities, improved systems, trained staff and improved services thanks to the trial rounds," he said.