This year has been a turning point for us as at the New Silk Road Network as we took a bold step forward, hosting our Annual Meet-Up as a joint event with our sister network, the Motion Logistics Network. We brought together members from both networks in the beautiful city of Almaty, Kazakhstan, creating an environment where existing relationships could deepen while new ones were forged across continents.

Choosing Almaty as our destination felt both deliberate and symbolic. While it's not the usual backdrop for international logistics gatherings, this city has always been a natural meeting point. Centuries ago, Almaty stood at the crossroads of the ancient Silk Road, where traders, ideas, and cultures converged. That same spirit of exchange continues today, creating the ideal backdrop for our two networks to collaborate. As Central Asia continues to grow as an increasingly important market and logistics hub, Almaty represents both the historical legacy and future potential of the trade routes we all serve.

The New Silk Road Network's 2025 Annual Meet-Up took place from October 14-17 in Almaty, at the InterContinental Almaty. This wasn't just another traditional gathering it was an experiment in collaboration. By joining forces with the Motion Logistics Network, we aimed to give our members a broader reach and access to partners operating in regions and trade lanes beyond the silk road. The joint format delivered exactly what we hoped: growth opportunities without sacrificing the personal connections that are the backbone of our community.

We kicked off the Annual Meet-Up on October 14th with a Cocktail Reception, generously sponsored by Business Solutions Partners. Members from both networks filled the room, some reuniting with old friends, others making introductions. Over drinks and good company, complete strangers became warm acquaintances, and the atmosphere set a welcoming tone for the intensive days ahead.

The next day marked the official start of our business program. Network Director Ziwei Liu opened the day with a speech that outlined what we hoped to achieve together, setting clear expectations for the days ahead. Then came the one-to-one meetings. Throughout the day, our delegates had the opportunity to formally introduce their companies to each other, diving into specifics about capabilities, service areas, and strategic partnership possibilities. Between these focused sessions, Alexander Global Logistics kept everyone energized by sponsoring the coffee break. Each delegate also received a lanyard, courtesy of Ocean Bright Logistics, and quality folders provided by Korpershoek Warehousing & Forwarding, small touches that helped keep everyone organized throughout the busy schedule. In the evening, we made our way to Kok-Tobe Hall and Terrace for the Gala Dinner. Set high in the mountains with sweeping views of Almaty's glittering skyline, the venue provided an elegant backdrop where business discussions naturally evolved into genuine friendships over excellent food and conversation.

The momentum carried well into next day with another full day of one-to-one meetings. Our delegates approached these final business sessions with enthusiasm, making the most of every conversation. That evening, MEPL International LLC sponsored the Networking Dinner at Peking Duck.  Although we were in Kazakhstan, we couldn't resist the charm of spinning tabletops, shared dishes. The atmosphere was warm and relaxed, as everyone enjoyed authentic flavours, laughter, and deeper connections after two inspiring days together.

For the final day, we left the meeting room and ventured into Kazakhstan's stunning natural landscape. The Mountain Tour took us to the Ayusai gorge where walking through the scenery, discovering a beautiful waterfall, gave our delegates a chance to connect in a completely different setting. We then experienced something uniquely Kazakh, a Falcon Hunting Show that showcased the region's rich cultural heritage. The day concluded with lunch at Navat Chaikhana, a traditional restaurant where we savoured authentic Kazakh cuisine. This day in nature was the perfect way to close out what had been an incredibly productive week.

The connections forged and strengthened during these four days in Kazakhstan have once again demonstrated the power of bringing our global community together in person. These moments of collaboration, celebration, and cultural discovery remind us why we do what we do and fuel our enthusiasm for the journey ahead.

Until next time...