Shanghai Party Secretary Yu Zhengsheng on December 26 urged all sectors in the city to help accelerate World Expo preparations by working harder and through closer collaboration.

Speaking to a city conference that was also broadcast online to reach all neighborhoods, Yu said that reports have revealed some difficulties in the Expo preparation.

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Yu said the grassroots officials' initiative and direct participation in the preparation work are instrumental in guaranteeing the success of the World Expo the city will host next year.

He said the city has already achieved some marked progresses in the Expo preparation, but the next stage will be tougher and it calls for harder work and closer collaboration among all sectors of local society.

Yu also pointed out that without the participation of the majority of local residents, to host a successful and unforgettable World Expo in the city next year will be simply impossible. So, mobilizing the local residents to take part in and make contributions to the World Expo will be a key strategy that should be adhered to by all government departments at all levels.

He stressed that while maintaining a smooth operation of the World Expo, the city should try its best to decrease the chance of disrupting the normal social order and daily life of local residents.

Top city Party and government officials attended the conference.