A political advisor recently proposed organizing a visit for officials from across the country to the upcoming World Expo in Shanghai to improve their innovation abilities, stimulate the economy and promote the Expo, Guangzhou Daily reported March 13.

Wang Junjin, chairman of Junyao Group, put forward this proposal at the third session of the 11th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, which lasted from March 3 to 13.

Such a proposal may seem reasonable to some, but for the author and most netizens, it is ridiculous.

First, it is wishful thinking to hope such a visit will improve officials' innovative ability. It is well-known that China's officials, college students and scientists aren't innovative, with the ultimate reason lying in the exam-oriented education system and the general social climate. It is absolutely unrealistic to change the situation with a simple visit. Supposing that such a claim is right, the leaders of Shanghai, the officials involved in the Expo and those who have visited Expos in other countries should have obtained a strong sense for innovation. But the fact turns out not so satisfying. If it is true, it should be the students, not the officials, who should be organized to visit the Expo. After all, top priority should be given to the young generation's development.

Second, it is needless and improper to advocate and promote the Expo through such visit. The central government, Shanghai government and the media have done a great job promoting the Expo. The whole world has already been informed of the event, let alone the Chinese people. Therefore, future promotions will contribute little to the Expo economy. Even if a better promotion is needed, local officials should exert efforts to introduce the Expo to the public, rather than travel there.

Third, such a visit would breach the nation's regulations. The proposed visit, in nature, is an encouragement of corruption – a free trip for officials with the so-called "investigation" a fa?ade. The central government has reiterated the ban on officials traveling on public funds. So, such a tour would be out of the question.

Generally speaking, visitors to the Expo mainly consist of some companies and common visitors that are not directly related to the Expo. If an organized tour must be conducted, it is the public rather than officials who should be given the chance.

(This post was first published in Chinese and translated by Fan Junmei.)