An artist's work of the expo site of 2014 Qingdao International Horticultural Exposition (QIHE).

A mobilization ceremony was held last week to kick off the 300-day construction of the exhibition and park area of the 2014 Qingdao International Horticultural Expo (QIHE).

"The preparatory work of the expo was given social support and we intend to host a world-class horticultural event featuring Chinese fashion, Shandong elements and Qingdao brands," said Wang Jianxiang, Qingdao vice-mayor and the executive director general of the QIHE Executive Committee. He called on all participants to "race against time, take part in every duty and strive for excellence" to ensure the site construction runs smoothly.

Major infrastructure work is expected to be finished by the end of the year, including the roadbed construction, pipeline installment, dam, gully and other water system management projects, and the planting of decorative woody plants. The preparatory team is required to make significant progress in constructing the themed pavilions and other structures, accomplishing their goal for the exhibitor marketing.

Located at the Baiguo Mountain Forest Park of Qingdao, the 2014 World Horticultural Expo will be held from April to October 2014, attracting an estimated 1.2 million visitors.

Li Fengli, secretary-general of the QIHE Execution Committee, said that the event will be another significant result after the city successfully held the Sailing Regatta of the Beijing Olympics in 2008.

"Qingdao will present the world with its ocean elements and international event organization standards as an Olympic city," Li told China Daily.

More than 40 foreign exhibitors are expected to participate. Last week the organizing committee signed a contract with Pattaya, Thailand. The contract made Pattaya the first overseas exhibitor. Brest, Qingdao's sister city in France confirmed its participation in an official letter released on March 21.

"We will execute the construction plan on a 24-7 schedule with several shifts in the next 300 days," Li said.

The major part of the park is built on a hill, which brings greater challenges to the construction team. "But the final effect of the park will surprise visitors with a splendid undulating landscape and varieties," Li added.

By Xie Chuanjiao (China Daily Qingdao Bureau)

Edited by Chen Zhilin and Rakee M