Foreign Minister marks end of the largest ever showcase of Australia overseas

Media release

Shanghai

31 October 2010

Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd today attended the Closing Ceremony of the Shanghai World Expo and formally closed the Australian pavilion.

"I congratulate the city of Shanghai and the people of China on the successful staging of this historic Expo, which welcomed over 70 million visitors," said Mr Rudd.

The award-winning Australian pavilion at the Expo introduced over 8.1 million visitors to Australia's rich culture, innovation and capabilities.

Ranked among the top five most popular pavilions, it was the largest ever single-site promotion of Australia overseas.

"Australia's pavilion, voted in the top five most popular pavilions, confirms the strong interest and opportunities for Australia in China," said Mr Rudd.

A total of 15,800 Australian and Chinese entrepreneurs, officials and business academics attended 217 invitation-only business program events, held in the pavilion's VIP spaces.

"8,000 Chinese and international VIP delegations visited the Australian pavilion, including China's President Hu Jintao and Vice Premier Li Keqiang - a further testament to the Pavilion's popularity.

"Over 700 performers showcased the diversity of Australia's creative industries through classical and contemporary dance, street theatre and multimedia."

Coverage of the Australian pavilion was extensive in Chinese press, with over 7,500 positive media reports.

"The Australian pavilion has consolidated our strong reputation as a reliable partner for China and has made an important contribution to strengthening and deepening this important and dynamic relationship," said Mr Rudd.

Australia was among over 192 countries and 50 international organisations and corporations which participated in the Expo.

The Australian Government is proud of its investment in the Australian pavilion.

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