Khaw Boon Wan, Singapore's Minister of Health and Wu Yunfei, counselor of the Bureau of Shanghai World Expo Coordination, press buttons to start the ceremony.

Singapore has picked an Expo mascot called Liu Lian Xiao Xing, or "Durian Star," with a spiny head resembling a durian fruit and wearing the iconic Merlion image on his clothes.

Described as a curious and vigorous Singaporean boy who has a strong preference for durian, "Durian Star" will be printed on all souvenirs to be sold or given to visitors.

The mascot's image can be found at www.singaporeatworldexpo.com/en. The mascot was introduced to the public yesterday as the city-state celebrated the completion of the steel structure for its exhibition hall.

Khaw Boon Wan, Singapore's Minister of Health, delivers a speech.

Wu Yunfei, counselor of the Bureau of Shanghai World Expo Coordination, delivers a speech.

Liu Lian Xiao Xing, or "Durian Star," poses with Haibao.

The pavilion's red logo was also unveiled. The inspiration came from the city-state's music-box-like pavilion and musical instruments such as the glockenspiel, piano and marimba.

The three-story "music box" pavilion will have an "Urban Symphony" theme. Its aluminum facade will portray Singapore's famous buildings. Music will be a core element in Singapore's 3,000-square-meter pavilion.

The building is scheduled to be completed in April.

logo of the pavilion

Liu Lian Xiao Xing, or "Durian Star"

Editor: Hu Min