THE China-Central Asia Summit is set to take place tomorrow and Friday in Xi’an, the capital city of Shaanxi Province. On the occasion, leaders of the five Central Asian countries and China will gather. The summit will help foster cooperation between the two sides, boost people-to-people bonds and further enhance relations among the participating countries. The friendly exchanges between the two sides trace back to ancient times. Xi’an is the place where Zhang Qian began his journey to the Western Regions via Central Asia during the Western Han Dynasty (202 B.C.-A.D. 8) with his envoys. This expedition eventually led to the opening of the Silk Road. During the Tang Dynasty (618-907), Xi’an attracted a significant influx of foreign merchants, envoys and students from various countries. Home to a number of world-renowned historical sites, Xi’an evokes a nostalgic reflection of its glorious past. Several modern cultural blocks boasting a blend of shopping, dining and other recreational activities have been built based on historical heritages, which endow the metropolis with a unique charm. (Xinhua) | 