The Silk Road was an ancient network of trade routes that was for centuries vital to cultural interaction between the East and West. 2017 Silk Road Arts Festival Development Forum is aimed at achieving diverse, independent, balanced and sustainable development through high level of connectivity and reinforced pragmatic cooperation. Keynote speech: Robert Wilson. Opening panel: Haris Pasovic, Director of Bosnia East and West Cultural Centre; Julia Amour, Director of Festivals Edinburgh; David Baile, CEO ISPA New York; Cathy Barbash, Director of Barbash Arts Consulting Services.