The World Expo 2010 fair in Shanghai has begun holding practice runs, local media said on Tuesday.

EXPO Park was opened for the first visitors to evaluate the fair`s facilities and make final adjustments to the process ahead of the forthcoming opening ceremony on May 1. The practice drills will last until April 25 and will include another five rehearsal days.

During the dry run held on Tuesday six pavilions made by twelve Chinese state-run companies were opened for visitors, including a space pavilion, as well as shipbuilding, telecommunication, oil and electricity pavilions.

During the first test day, around 200,000 people will attend Expo 2010.

The 2010 World Expo is to be held under the motto of a "Better City - Better Life" from May 1 to October 31, 2010, in Shanghai in an area of six square kilometers (2.3 sq. miles). Up to 70 mln people are expected to visit the city for the event, which has seen investment of up to $4 billion.

Russia is constructing its Expo pavilion for the first time in 30 years, rather than renting one from the host country.
sections: Society, World News