IRELAND will showcase its changing cityscapes down through the ages at the 2010 World Expo.

The island will display its urban lifestyle with emphasis on the efficient use of space. Declan Kelleher, the Irish Ambassador to China, said Ireland wants to highlight its sustainable development model and people's involvement in these projects.

He signed a participation contract with Expo authorities in Shanghai yesterday.

The Irish Pavilion will be built across gentle inclines and will have five enclosed galleries, covering more than 1,500 square meters of exhibition space.

The country's pavilion will also feature a courtyard plaza that will serve as exhibition space and a performance area.

At the facility, visitors will get a feel of Dublin's famous Liffey River and walk down a re-creation of O'Connell Street, another landmark of the Irish capital, Kelleher said. A military barracks dating back to 1722 also helps trace the city's history.

'The pavilion will engage visitors in an entertaining and informative interaction on the theme 'Better City, Better Life,'' said Kelleher.

The rich cultural heritage of Irish cities and their rich achievements in arts and literature will be presented through exhibitions and performances.

Irish artists will be invited to the pavilion during the Expo.

Ireland confirmed its participation in the Expo in September 2006. It was the 107th county to sign a contract with organizers.

Meanwhile, Beijing-based Yuanpei Century Translation Co Ltd signed a project sponsor agreement yesterday with organizers to provide language services at the Expo.