Core Viewpoint - The news highlights the significant progress and development of Xi'an as a key node in the Belt and Road Initiative, emphasizing its role in enhancing international trade and connectivity with Central Asia and Europe through initiatives like the China-Europe Railway Express and the establishment of a free trade zone [1][2][3]. Group 1: International Trade and Connectivity - Xi'an has established a high-level open channel for international trade, with over 2,500 China-Europe Railway Express trains operating this year, facilitating the transport of goods such as automobiles and home appliances to Germany [2]. - The international trade volume from Xi'an reached 687 billion yuan in land transport and 2,409.4 billion yuan in air transport in 2024, marking increases of 37.6% and 17.5% respectively, with trade with Belt and Road countries accounting for 58.1% of the total [3]. - The China-Europe Railway Express has expanded its operations from a weekly schedule to a more frequent service, achieving a record of 1,530 containers loaded in a single day at the Xi'an International Port Station [3]. Group 2: Free Trade Zone and Policy Innovation - The Xi'an Free Trade Zone has played a crucial role in enhancing trade facilitation, reducing export clearance times from 1.6 hours to 48 minutes, and saving logistics costs for enterprises by approximately 30 million yuan annually [5][6]. - The Free Trade Zone has contributed to 70% of the province's total import and export value, with a trade value of 2.31 trillion yuan, showcasing its importance in the region's economic landscape [6]. Group 3: Industry Development and Innovation - The Shaanxi Automobile Group showcased its advancements in the new energy vehicle sector at the Silk Road International Expo, with an expected export of 63,000 vehicles in 2024, reflecting an 11.5% year-on-year growth [7]. - The integration of technology and innovation is evident in companies like Zhongzhi Keyi Technology, which has developed advanced imaging devices, indicating a strong focus on enhancing competitiveness in global markets [7]. Group 4: Silk Road International Expo - The Silk Road International Expo serves as a vital platform for promoting economic development and international cooperation, attracting over 10,000 foreign merchants from more than 190 countries since its inception [8][9]. - The Expo aims to deepen connectivity and expand economic cooperation, positioning Xi'an as a strategic hub for trade and investment in the Belt and Road Initiative [9].