In 1998, a specialized exposition with the theme of "The Oceans—A Heritage for the Future" was held in Lisbon, Portugal.

To give a panoramic view of the immense Chinese culture, the China Pavilion was divided into four exhibition areas. In the context of the maritime Silk Road, the China Pavilion introduced the story of the great Chinese navigator Zheng He, who led a fleet across the ocean seven times some 600 years ago.