In good shape: Chief Secretary for Administration Henry Tang and Shanghai Executive Vice Mayor Yang Xiong officiate at the Hong Kong Pavilion structure completion ceremony.

The structure of the Hong Kong Pavilion at the World Exposition 2010 Shanghai China has been completed on the eve of the 200-day countdown to the mega event.

Chief Secretary for Administration Henry Tang and Shanghai Executive Vice Mayor Yang Xiong marked the occasion with a tree-planting ceremony at the site today.

Noting the timely completion of the pavilion structure marks a major milestone in Hong Kong's preparation for the expo, Mr Tang said the installation of its interior fittings and exhibits will start soon for completion by the end of March, in time for a trial run.

"We attach great importance to this invaluable opportunity to showcase the unique positioning of Hong Kong as Asia's world city," Mr Tang said.

The pavilion has three exhibition levels highlighting a different aspect of Hong Kong's connectivity and creativity. On completion it will have a sleek and contemporary look.

The top level showcases the city's rich natural heritage and the way in which the compact urban cityscape co-exists sustainably with extensive swathes of greenbelt, wetland and woodland areas covering almost 70% of Hong Kong.

The Bureau of Shanghai World Expo Co-ordination is launching a series of activities to mark the 200-day countdown, including a display at the Shanghai Exhibition Centre in which Hong Kong's participation will be featured.

Deputy Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development (Communications & Technology) Alan Siu will present a Hong Kong exhibition theme - Smart Card, Smart City, Smart Life - at the Expo Forum on Creativity & City's Future on October 16.

Hong Kong will also take part in the Expo Shanghai Online project and organise a Hong Kong Week in October 2010.