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31 October 2010
Last updated at
10:45
In pictures: Shanghai expo
After playing host to more than 72 million visitors over the course of six months, the Shanghai Expo is closing its doors. China declared its biggest ever tourism event a stunning success.
China spent 28.6bn yuan ($4.3bn; £2.7bn) on the event and many billions more on infrastructure projects for Shanghai, including expanded subway lines and a new domestic airport.
The Expo has given China an opportunity to showcase its rise as a modern industrial power and its growing influence around the world.
The theme of the Expo was "Better City, Better Life" and the displays by 189 countries were meant to illustrate ideas for urban sustainability.
The huge fair drew mainly Chinese visitors, many from neighbouring provinces, who got a taste of foreign cultures and ideas.
Chinese premier Wen Jiabao told the closing forum: "The success of the Expo has strengthened China's confidence and resolve to pursue reform and opening up."
Visitors have had to wait for up to 10 hours for some of the more popular pavilions. Here, police break up a fight in the queue for the Saudi Arabia Pavilion.
Most of the structures built for the Expo must be dismantled and recycled or disposed of. Some pavilions will be moved elsewhere to serve as museums or landmarks.
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