The 18th Investment & Trade Forum for Cooperation between East and West China & the Silk Road International Exposition will be held on May 23~26 in Shaanxi Province, China, a NEAR observer. We hope NEAR member regions and observers will take part in the Expo as there are a variety of programs prepared, such as establishment and operation of exhibition stands related to Silk Road Economic Belt, topic forum, and consultations. Please refer to the file attached (Chinese and English) for the invitation card and details. Please contact us through emails in advance if you (NEAR member regions and observers) are interested in participating. • Foreign Affairs Office of Shaanxi Provincial people's Government: zfr_31@126.com • Name: The 18th Investment & Trade Forum for Cooperation between East and West China & The Silk Road International Exposition • Theme: Expanding Open Cooperation and Promoting Common Development • Date: May 23-26, 2014 • Venue: Xi’an Qujiang International Conference & Exhibition Center