Australia launches Victoria week for Shanghai World Expo

Australian state of Victoria will showcase its capabilities in key areas such as information and communication technology, biotechnology, sustainable urban development, education, tourism and the arts during a week-long program of events at the 2010 Shanghai World Expo.

The state premier John Brumby officially launched Victoria Week in Melbourne on Monday, saying it would show the world the state's strength as a major trade, investment and cultural partner of China.

Brumby said Victoria Week, which runs from May 17 to May 23 in the Australia Pavilion, would provide unprecedented opportunities for local businesses to strengthen their links with Victoria's largest trading partner and attract investments to the state.

China is Victoria's largest trading partner, second largest export market and will be its biggest tourism market by 2012, Brumby said.

China accounts for Victoria's second largest share of international students from the higher education and vocational education and training sectors, with more than 40,000 students enrolled in Victorian courses this year, a 23 percent increase on the previous year, he said.

Brumby said more than 40,000 people are expected to visit the Australia Pavilion at the Shanghai World Expo each day and that's why Victoria has a strong presence.