PARIS, Oct. 8 (Xinhua) -- The Beijing International Horticultural Exhibition is an "extraordinary" event which provides a window into green living, said Vicente Gonzalez Loscertales, secretary general of the Bureau of International Expositions.

In addressing the theme of "Live Green, Live Better," the expo "has been a window into green living, sustainable development and improved quality of life," Loscertales told Xinhua in a recent interview.

Covering an area of 503 hectares, the expo, which drew participants from 110 countries and international organizations, was opened to the public on April 29 in Yanqing District of Beijing and lasted until Monday.

Statistics showed that the expo received about 7.8 million visitors from April 29 to Sept. 23.

Noting that the expo was "record-breaking," Loscertales said it has "reached the hearts and the minds of millions of visitors."

"All those who came to the expo have experienced the beauty and role of plants and nature, and have seen for themselves the importance of protecting nature and living greener and healthier lives," he said.

"They have been charmed by the beautiful gardens and pavilions, and have demonstrated their willingness to learn about green civilization, and to discover new cultures and ideas," he said.

Through the expo, the visitors have learned about new behaviors and ways in which they can contribute to a greener future, he added.

Loscertales said the expo is also meaningful to all the participants who have been inspired by the concept of ecological civilization and by China's success in prioritizing environmental issues.

"The host country, China, its cities and provinces, and all international participants have taken the opportunity to showcase their green solutions -- whether technologies, ideas or practices -- that contribute to a greener future," he said.

"Thanks to the expo, (not only) the countries, but also the cities, provinces, companies and other participants can strengthen their partnerships in developing a more sustainable and ecological way of life," he added.

Loscertales said he believes the legacy of the expo will live on, "not only in its physical form as part of Yanqing District's development as a destination for tourism and a hub for horticultural industry, research and development, but also through its intellectual legacy represented by the ideas and principles of 'Live Green, Live Better.'"

"At a moment when global attention is turned towards shared environmental challenges, the expo has been a grand gathering of nations that reflects the importance of collaboration and shared responsibility in building a green future for future generations," he added. Enditem

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