Russia will present its major growth areas, regions and cities at the 2010 World Expo in Shanghai, the industry and trade minister said on Friday.

"Not only Russia as a whole will be presented at the exhibition, but also Russian cities, especially those that are growing rapidly today, many of which will in the very near future host major international events - the APEC 2012 forum in Vladivostok, the 2014 Olympic Games in Sochi, and Universiade 2013 in Kazan," Viktor Khristenko said.

He added that St. Petersburg and Krasnoyarsk would be included, as well as other cities and regions.

Khristenko, who chairs the organizing committee for Russia's participation in Expo 2010, earlier said it was very important for Russia to take part in the event.

The theme of Expo 2010 is "Better City, Better Life," representing the common wish of the whole humankind for a better living in future urban environments.

The Expo will be held from May 1 to October 31, 2010 in Shanghai in an area of six square kilometers (2.3 sq. miles). Up to 70 mln people are expected to visit the city for the event, which has seen investment of up to $4 billion.

Russia is constructing its Expo pavilion for the first time in 30 years, rather than renting one from the host country.

The 6,000-square-meter sun-shaped pavilion, dominated by fairy-tale motifs, will comprise 12 white-and-gold towers symbolizing the 12 months, showing a comfortable city environment as seen through children's eyes.

SHANGHAI, March 19 (RIA Novosti)