Forty-eight international organizations have confirmed their participation in the 2010 World Expo, a record in World Expo history.

The announcement came from a promotional conference in Geneva, Switzerland, on June 5, where representatives of 14 international organizations that will participate met.

Shanghai Mayor Han Zheng told the conference that the range of international organizations in the 2010 Expo would help boost the event's international profile on a larger scope, promoting exchanges among different civilizations at a deeper level and pushing world economic, cultural and scientific developments over a wider range.

He believes Expo will be a "successful, splendid and unforgettable" event.

The delegation headed by Han visited Basel, a sister city of Shanghai, and talked to local officials about stepping up cultural exchanges as well as cooperating in life science, education and staff training.

The cities of Basel, Geneva and Zurich will present a joint Urban Best Practices Area exhibition "Better Water - Best Urban Life."