A consensus dedicated to promoting openness and cooperation in higher education was issued by a conference of The Executive Council of the University Alliance of the Silk Road on Saturday in Xi'an, capital of Shaanxi province.

Reached by representatives from UASR's 128 members universities, the consensus said the ancient Silk Road trade route had for centuries been the catalyst for openness and collaboration, and was now "witnessing the opening of a new page" in education cooperation.

UASR members pledged to carry out in-depth exchange activities and put forward specific cooperation plans for teacher and student exchanges, scholarship and silk weaving summer classes.

Established in May, UASR was spearheaded by Xi'an Jiaotong University with the aim of promoting close cooperation and exchange among universities and contributing to economic and social development along the Silk Road. Its members span 31 countries.

"The establishment of UASR is one of our ways of playing a more important role in the world's development and progress," said Wang Shuguo, president of Xi'an Jiaotong University.