On April 10, Hong Hao, Director General of the Bureau of Shanghai World Expo, announced that "Expo Shanghai has hit a new record, with 201 countries and international organizations having confirmed to participate in the pageant." This not only means China has created a new record in the Expo history, but also shows that China has honored its solemn commitment to "attract 200 countries and international organizations to participate in Expo Shanghai".  

Up to April 11 of this year, 202 countries and international organizations have confirmed their participation. In that figure, 49 countries are from Africa, 43 from Asia, 42 from Europe, 22 from America, 15 from Oceania plus 31 international organizations. A breakthrough has been made to involve the countries with no diplomatic relations with China to participate in the pageant. Currently, the Bureau of Shanghai World Expo Coordination is still working to mobilize more countries and international organizations to pose at Expo Shanghai.

"Reaching the 200 mark is just the start of realizing our objective," Hong Hao added. "The organizers will provide better services to the participants, making a success in quantity into a success in quality and making Expo Shanghai into a successful, splendid and unforgettable world pageant."