Many people are wondering which Chinese city would hold the next World Expo after Shanghai, which drew the curtains on this year's World Expo on Oct 31.

Some people even believe that Guangzhou has a good chance of doing so because of its economic power and for leading China's reform and opening-up. Another advantage Guangzhou enjoys is that many in the international community still see it as the gateway to China.

But despite all that, we should consider the pros and cons of hosting another international event in the near future. To begin with, is it wise for another Chinese city to host the same global event in a short period? Is it necessary to use the World Expo again to prove a Chinese city's dynamism and China's economic power?

China is also thinking of bidding for the 2022 Football World Cup, which is good news, especially for people who want the quality of football played in the country to match that played in Europe and Latin America.

But like everything else, this needs a second thought. The people who are enthusiastic about China playing host to as many international events as possible within the shortest possible time should realize that we are not prepared to do so. Besides, holding an international event proves nothing about the economic power of a country.

Chen Zhi, via e-mail

Readers' comments are welcome. Please send your e-mail to opinion@chinadaily.com.cn or letters@chinadaily.com.cn or to the individual columnists. China Daily reserves the right to edit all letters. Thank you.

(China Daily 11/16/2010 page9)