Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan addresses at the?Expo opening ceremony in Shanghai Friday night. [Xinhua]

SHANGHAI -?Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan said Friday the upcoming Shanghai World Expo, with the theme of "Better City, Better Life," would usher in new ways of life for people and contribute to the promotion of harmony among mankind, cities and nature.

Wang, who heads the expo organizing committee, said at the expo opening ceremony that the event would serve as a platform for people worldwide to innovate, cooperate and communicate.

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The Shanghai World Expo would open the door to future cities, help boost the construction of peaceful, civilized and happy cities, and promote the all-round development of mankind, he said.

In his speech delivered at the ceremony, Wang expressed his gratitude to all participants of the expo.

The participants' passion, wisdom, creativity and craftsmanship had vitalized all the beautiful pavilions and exhibition halls, through which messages of peace, friendship and hope were conveyed, he said.

Wang also thanked the Chinese people, in particular Shanghai residents,volunteers, expo staff members and people who helped build Expo site and pavilions for their participation, sacrifice, understanding and support.

China would provide all visitors with a successful, spectacular and memorable World Expo with good services and sincere smiles, he said.

The Shanghai World Expo, the first world exposition hosted by a developing country since the inaugural fair in London in 1851,is expected to attract more than 70 million visitors during its six-month run ending October 31.

Some 189 countries and 57 international organizations participated in the largest-ever expo.