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"Air links between China and Central Asia countries are urgently needed and the forum can also initiate a fund to finance the links," he said.

Zhou also suggested trains for the exclusive use of tourists between major tourist spots and the establishment of consulates en route to facilitate tourism expansion.

The two-day forum was sponsored by the UNDP, the Ministry of Commerce and Lanzhou People's Government. It aims to create platforms for dialogue, and establish cooperation mechanisms for nations, cities and business communities.

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