Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography (XIEG), a research institute affiliated to the Chinese Academy of Sciences, joined hands with the Silkroad Agricultural Education and Research Innovation Alliance last week at a silkroad agricultural education and research forum held in Astana, Kazakhstan.

As one of the second group of 13 members joining the Alliance, XIEG will identify the common goal of the organization to promote education, research and cultural exchanges and cooperation among the members that scattering in different countries along the Silk Road.

Jilili Abuduwaili, deputy director of XIEG, signed the memorandum to join the alliance on behalf of the institute.

The Alliance, inaugurated with 59 founding members last year, is dedicated to promoting integrated ties between members in talent cultivation, scientific research, technology extension, cultural exchange and policy making.

Founding members of the Alliance include universities and research institutions from 12 countries along the Silk Road, ranging from Asia, Europe, to the Middle East and East Africa.

The non-governmental alliance is founded to facilitate agricultural education and technological progress for Silk Road countries through constructing a platform for cooperation, refining coordination systems and beefing up resource sharing.

The Alliance will host regular multilateral or bilateral communication and consultation forums over major issues of national and public concern for the member countries and inspire them to establish education and research organizations, technology innovation platforms, technology extension bases and Silk Road cultural exchange centers.