April 30, 2010 -- At the invitation of President Hu Jintao, President Michel will be attending the opening ceremony of the World Expo 2010, which has the participation of 192 countries and 50 international organizations. The opening ceremony of the Shanghai Expo will be attended by heads of state from around the world, and is the largest event in the history of the World Expo.

During his visit, the President will be meeting with President Hu Jintao to further build on the excellent relations between the two countries.  The two leaders are expected to share ideas on subjects of mutual importance including the fight against piracy in the Indian Ocean.   

This visit follows previous a previous visit by President Michel to Beijing in 2006, and visits to Seychelles by President Hu Jintao in 2007 and Chairman of the People's Congress, Wu Bangguo in 2008.
The President will be accompanied by the Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Barry Faure, the Ambassador of Seychelles to China, Philippe Le Gall, and the Seychelles Tourism Board Marketing Director Alain St. Ange.
The Shanghai Expo theme is "Better City, Better Life," where many countries are displaying their achievements in eco-friendly technology and sustainable development.  In its pavilion, Seychelles will be showcasing its natural beauty, its achievements in environmental protection as well as the dynamism and vibrancy of its people and culture.  The Seychelles pavilion at the exposition will also be opened by President Michel during his visit. 

The Shanghai Expo features some 189 National Pavilion Days and 39 International Organization Days as well as 20,000 cultural performances.  The World expo has become a key point on the international calendar where countries from around the world may showcase their achievements and promote investment and tourism.