CRI听力: Belgium-EU Pavilion

With the Shanghai World Expo just around the corner, many countries are putting the finishing touches on their respective pavilions. But for those people planning to visit who might not have the time to check out all the individual pavilions that Europe has to offer, Zhang Wan has been looking into one that might well provide "one-stop-shopping."

For the coming Shanghai World Expo, what are you most interested in? French romance, Belgian chocolate, or German sausage? You will be able to get a chance to experience all these in just one place- the EU Pavilion.

At the pavilion, which the EU will share with Belgium, you will be able to visit all its 27 member countries at the same time.

But why did the European Commission opt for a joint pavilion with Belgium? Serge Abou, the EU's ambassador to China, says that's because Belgium will be holding the rotating presidency in the second half of 2010. The EU pavilion shows visitors how people live in Europe. (www.hXen.com)

The EU pavilion looks like a brain cell. And it is based around the theme of "Intelligent Europe". Visitors will see examples of how European technology and innovation help to create a better life for European citizens in terms of standard of living, environment, urban solutions communications and integration of old and new architecture in the cities.

Through exhibitions, you will be presented with a brief history of the European Union and a panorama of the economic and social achievements of Europe, such as the euro and the Schengen visa.

For CRI, I'm Zhang Wan.