Visitors to the USA Pavilion at Expo 2010 Shanghai hit a record-breaking seven million on October 23. The lucky seven millionth visitor received a unique gift from the U.S. State Department and a thank you letter from the pavilion organizer. |
Visitors to the USA Pavilion at Expo 2010 Shanghai hit a record-breaking seven million on October 23. The lucky seven millionth visitor received a unique gift from the U.S. State Department and a thank you letter from the pavilion organizer.
Fang Shengqi from Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province and his grandfather were warmly welcomed by Ambassador José H. Villarreal, U.S. Commissioner General to Shanghai Expo, before receiving a thank you letter signed by Amb. Villarreal, framed within a one and only dedicated pin from the White House with both President Barack H. Obama's and Secretary of State Hilary R. Clinton's signatures on the back.
"Nearly six months ago, the USA Pavilion opened its doors to share the American spirit with the people of China and those from around the world. Today, we share this spirit with our seven millionth visitor – a truly extraordinary moment," said Ambassador José H. Villarreal, "This is one million more guests than we anticipated and one million more which will experience the tremendous cultural exchange taking place here at Expo 2010 Shanghai. This triumph has been made possible through partnership between us – country to country, people to people. We eagerly anticipate continuing this partnership through the remaining days of Expo and beyond."
"I feel extremely honored by this surprise. I really like the invaluable gift from the U.S. government and the USA Pavilion organizer. It is a symbol of the friendship between the Chinese and American people. It is also with great proud and gratitude that I have become a milestone visitor of the USA Pavilion," Fang Shengqi said with a big grin.
Being one of the most popular pavilions at Expo 2010, the USA Pavilion has kept a momentum of hosting 45,000 visitors per day, and is expected to receive nearly 7,500,000 guests over the entire duration of the Expo.
At over 60,000 square feet (6,000 square meters), the USA Pavilion is one of the largest national pavilions at the Expo. With the theme of "Rising to the Challenge", the United States presence will showcase American culture, values, innovation and business in one of China's most dynamic cities, while celebrating the friendship and cooperation between the United States, China and the rest of the world.