SHANGHAI, June 7 -- Shanghai will host the final of the 2007 Miss Bikini International contest this year, and promoted the event in glittering style last night.

Last year's winner, Julia Liptakova of Slovakia, and runner-up, China's Yang Lei, were center stage at proceedings on the banks of Xintiandi's Taipingqiao Lake.

Elimination pageants for the 34th edition of the competition are underway around the world, and Shanghai was naturally part of the party.

A total of 40 contestants from 40 countries and regions from as far and wide as France and Brazil will be at the Shanghai International Gymnastic Center for the final on August 18.

"It is the first time Shanghai will host the event," said Shen Chuanjun, an organizer, adding that the nine-person jury panel for the final will include top fashion professionals.