International Exhibitions Bureau (BIE) President Jean-Pierre Lafon said Friday he hoped the Shanghai World Expo would contribute to a "social awakening" so that cities may become more sustainable, fairer, safer and more harmonious.

In a speech delivered at the opening ceremony of the Shanghai World Expo, Jean-Pierre Lafon said "Better City, Better Life", the chosen theme of the exhibition, must drive people to improve the quality of life for the citizens at both developing and developed countries as the majority of the world's population now live in cities.

He said the expo will show the emergence of China at the beginning of the 21st century.

The Shanghai World Expo, the first world exposition hosted by a developing country since the inaugural fair in London in 1851, is expected to attract more than 70 million visitors during its six-month run ending Oct. 31.

Some 189 countries and 57 international organizations are here to participate in the largest-ever expo.