Message from the Minister

World expositions have come a long way since their beginnings in London more than 150 years ago. Today, they are windows on the world that allow us to discover the cultural, commercial, scientific, and technological achievements of all the participating countries.

Expo 2010 Shanghai demonstrates how, at the beginning of the 21st century, strategic urban development can help us offer our citizens a "Better City, Better Life." We see the exposition's vision of urban planning that takes into account the impact on natural resources and the environment. It also demonstrates how renewing or rebuilding the infrastructure of the past can breathe new life into cities.

For Canada, this is an opportunity to highlight our expertise in this field and in many others. The Government of Canada, along with its provincial, territorial, municipal, and private-sector partners, is always looking for new ways to promote our arts and culture.

As Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, I am proud to be part of the Expo 2010 Shanghai. This exposition gives us an opportunity to express our desire to make a better and more sustainable world, as well as to demonstrate our fundamental values of openness and respect for diversity.

Hon. James Moore