Tibet forum to open Aug. 12

China has invited more than 40 representatives from overseas to attend the fourth Forum on the Development of Tibet, which is scheduled for Aug. 12 and 13 in Lhasa.

It will be the first time to have so many overseas representatives participate in an international forum in Tibet, southwest China, according to a statement issued by the State Council's Information Office on Saturday.

The topic of this year's forum is the opportunities and choices for Tibet's development. Issues concerning the protection of Tibetan culture and environment will also be highlighted.

After the forum, nearly 100 representatives from China and abroad will conduct field trips in Lhasa, the capital city of Tibet, and Nyingchi, to "experience the real Tibet," according to the office.

The forum was first held in 2007 in Vienna, Austria.