BEIJING - China welcomes countries including the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) to participate in the 2010 Shanghai World Expo, a Foreign Ministry spokesman said Tuesday.

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Spokesman Qin Gang made the remarks at a routine news briefing in Beijing in response to a question on China's expectation of the DPRK's participation in the global event.

"Shanghai World Expo is an event for countries to enhance communication and cooperation as well as increase mutual understanding," Qin said. "China offers support and services for their participation."

DPRK Chamber of Commerce Vice-Chairman Ri Song Un told Xinhua on March 18 that the country had already finished preparatory work for the 2010 Shanghai World Expo, its first Expo appearance.

Situated in an area of 5.28 square kilometers at the core the city of Shanghai to exhibitions, events and forums, the six-month expo starting from May 1 will attract about 200 nations and regions and international organizations' participation, as well as 70 million visitors from home and abroad.