The Chinese government on Wednesday submitted an official invitation to embassies in China, inviting countries to attend the 2010 Shanghai World Expo.

The invitation, signed by Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, will be sent to all countries who have established diplomatic relations with China.

Many countries have asked about participation in the Shanghai World Expo since the event was legally registered by the International Bureau of Expositions last December.

The invitation process is a key part of the preparations in 2006, according to a meeting of the organizing committee chaired by Vice Premier Wu Yi recently.

The Chinese government will keep in close contact with governments of other countries on the preparation of the event.

The 2010 Shanghai World Expo, also known as the "Economic Olympics", will be held from May 1 to Oct. 31, 2010 and is expected to draw 70 million visitors from home and abroad. Two hundred countries and international organizations will be invited to participate in the Expo.

Source: Xinhua