Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping on Tuesday welcomed Latin American participation in the 2010 World Expo to be held in China, as a way for entrepreneurs to boost their understanding and seek business opportunities.

Xi voiced the invitation while addressing a seminar here attended by President Hugo Chavez and entrepreneurs from both China and Venezuela.

The vice president said that about 230 countries and international organizations have confirmed their participation in the 2010 World Expo, which for the first time will be hosted by a developing nation.

The 2010 Expo, Xi said, will serve as an important opportunity for people from around the world to exchange views and seek joint development.

During his address, Xi also spoke about 2008, which was an unusual year for China because of the devastating earthquake on May 12, the snow and low-temperature disaster, the successful hosting of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Beijing, the successful mission of the Shenzhou 7 manned space flight, and efforts to handle the international financial crisis.

Developing countries, including those in Latin America, offered valuable support to China in its efforts to host splendid events and to tackle difficulties, said Xi, voicing appreciation on behalf of the Chinese government and people.

Venezuela is the fourth leg of Xi's six-nation tour which already has taken him to Mexico, Jamaica, and Colombia. He will also visit Brazil and Malta.

Source:Xinhua