Overseas Chinese and Chinese-funded institutions in the United States on Saturday expressed their enthusiasm and support for the upcoming World Expo by donating money for its construction and preparation.

A donation gala was staged in New York, gathering more than 400 Chinese and local politicians. The gala, hosted by the China General Chamber of Commerce-USA (CGCC) and overseas Chinese communities, was held to mark the 100-day countdown celebration to the Expo which will fall on Thursday.

Jiang Yiren, a member of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, introduced the preparatory work of the Expo at the gala. He expressed appreciation for the support from overseas Chinese and Chinese-funded institutions.

The event is not only an opportunity for China, it would also help the international community regain confidence in countering the negative impact of the financial crisis and promoting economic, scientific and cultural exchanges and cooperation and sustainable development, he noted.

(en.expo2010.cn January 19, 2010)