From the press

China Daily | Updated: 2010-05-07 07:55

Robots join security squads

High-tech robots are playing a big part in security at the Expo 2010 Shanghai. One type, bomb-detector robots with long arms and continuous tracks, look like mini tanks. They will handle suspected explosive devices by remote control. They can even climb steps to inspect suspicious packages. Vehicle-examiner robots look like remote-control toy cars and can inspect the undercarriages of all types of vehicles. They will help police to search under cars in parking lots at the Expo. Patrol robots can serve visitors by carrying luggage and pouring water, opening and closing windows and using electrical appliances. They can also monitor fire, smoke, crowd anomalies and other emergencies.

CRI online

Pavilion beauty contest

Attractive attendants at numerous pavilions have become attractions at the Expo Garden. Visitors queue to take pictures with blonde female guides at the Denmark Pavilion, who are "just as beautiful as The Little Mermaid, if not more". Chinese-speaking female staff at the Korea Pavilion are highly praised among visitors for their patience and careful service. As many visitors queue to visit the Thailand Pavilion, Thai female attendants interact with visitors by teaching basic Thai conversations and dancing. Flamenco dancers at the Spain Pavilion attract thousands of visitors everyday.

Chinanews.com

Japanese housewife an Expo star

Tomiyo Yamada, a 61-year-old Japanese housewife, is a huge fan of the World Expo. Yamada battled illness to set a new attendance record at the 2005 Aichi World Expo by visiting 243 times - a number she plans to surpass at Shanghai Expo. Having visited the 2005 World Exposition in central Japan's Aichi Prefecture at least once every day during its 185-day run, Yamada intends to do the same at the Shanghai Expo. She'll study the various pavilions and has already volunteered to be a guide and consultant for the Japan Pavilion. Motivated by her enthusiasm, the entire Yamada family is now huge fans. Her husband retired in March and her eldest son will take a vacation so they can attend the Shanghai exhibition together.

China.org.cn, May 3