The first accident occurred in Kavura Village, Nyarusange Cell, Muhazi Sector, Rwamagana District, when a truck moving from Tanzania struck a pedestrian crossing the road.
Speaking to IGIHE, SP Twizeyimana Hamduni, spokesperson for the Rwanda National Police in the Eastern Province attributed it to overspeeding.
“The truck hit a man estimated to be around 30 years old, who died instantly. His identity remains unknown, and his body was immediately transported to Rwamagana Hospital,” SP Twizeyimana reported.
The second incident happened in Nyagatare District, in Kibuga I Village, Gakirage Cell, Nyagatare Sector, involving a fatal collision between a motorcyclist and a bicycle.
SP Twizeyimana explained that the accident occurred around 7 p.m., when a 30-year-old motorcyclist collided with a bicycle ridden by a 20-year-old.
“The motorcyclist died on the spot, while the cyclist sustained serious injuries. The accident is believed to have been caused by the failure to maintain a safe distance, as both were moving in the same direction,” he noted.
SP Twizeyimana urged all road users to adhere to traffic regulations, avoid speeding, maintain safe distances, and refrain from distractions like using mobile phones while driving.
He also emphasized the importance of avoiding any behavior, including drunk driving, that could lead to accidents.
The bodies have been taken to Rwamagana and Nyagatare hospitals for postmortem.
The report, titled “From Minerals to Manufacturing: Africa’s Competitiveness in Global Battery Supply Chains,” was conducted through the UK’s Manufacturing Africa programme in collaboration with the Faraday Institution, the UK’s leading research body on batteries and energy storage.
It presents cost-competitive investment opportunities for the battery supply chain in Africa.
Key findings suggest that, with targeted investment and supportive policy frameworks, refining lithium, nickel, manganese, and copper sourced locally in Africa could be up to 40% more competitive than global counterparts by 2030.
With just one high-quality refinery for each of these minerals, Africa could generate an additional USD 6.8 billion in annual revenue and create approximately 3,500 well-paying jobs within the battery supply chain.
In addition to mineral refining, preliminary analysis indicates that countries such as Tanzania and Morocco could potentially manufacture batteries at costs competitive with Europe under certain conditions. For instance, production costs could reach $72/kWh in Morocco and $68/kWh in Tanzania, aligning closely with Europe’s $68/kWh production cost, which benefits from subsidies.
The report also projects battery demand, highlights further opportunities in battery packs, battery assembly, and recycling, and outlines the current landscape of companies engaged in battery value chains across Africa. It offers strategic recommendations for policymakers and investors to drive these opportunities forward.
This report follows the Foreign Secretary’s address at Kew Gardens on September 17, 2024, where he shared plans to collaborate with partners to establish a Global Clean Power Alliance.
During the Lagos event, the Foreign Secretary engaged with investors, development partners, and clean energy firms, including UK-based smart meter company SteamaCo and e-waste management firm Hinckley Recycling.
Both firms are active in Nigeria, where they assembled a second-life battery as a demonstration of their commitment to local sustainability initiatives.
Helen King, Director for Economic Development and Partnerships at the UK Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, underscored that the report encourages investors to view Africa as a prospective battery manufacturer, not merely a consumer.
She reaffirmed the UK Government’s commitment to fostering inclusive, sustainable global growth, recognizing that this sector holds significant potential for African job creation and economic development.
“We look forward to engaging with policy makers and investors on taking forward the outcomes of this report and doing the hard work to realize the opportunity it represents,” she emphasized.
Aminu Umar-Saqid, Managing Director of Nigeria’s Sovereign Investment Authority, expressed that with Nigeria’s increasing energy needs, integrating renewable solutions and energy storage into local infrastructure is crucial to bridging the energy gap.
“This report, sponsored by the FCDO under its Manufacturing Africa Programme has been instrumental in calibrating our strategy thus providing a solid base for the development of our initiative,” he stated.
Professor Martin Freer, CEO of the Faraday Institution, pointed out that Africa’s abundance of essential minerals could enable the continent to play a transformative role in the global battery supply chain if it can address the challenges of investment, infrastructure, and workforce capacity.
“The report contains a wealth of information and analysis on the subject that will be valuable to a variety of stakeholders including potential investors in projects in other parts of the battery value chain beyond mining,” he noted.
Kemi Onabanjo, Nigeria Country Lead for the Manufacturing Africa programme, welcomed the report, stressing that turning Africa’s rich mineral resources into jobs and economic growth requires that African economies capture a larger share of the manufacturing process once minerals are out of the ground.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivered a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the 7th CIIE and the Hongqiao International Economic Forum.
Running from Nov. 5 to 10, the 7th CIIE has attracted 3,496 exhibitors from 129 countries and regions. It also sets a new record with 297 Fortune Global 500 companies and industry leaders attending the event.
More than 400 new products, new technologies and new services are set to be unveiled during the expo, which experts believe is a strong indication of global companies’ confidence in the Chinese market and their commitment to further development in China despite a sluggish global economic recovery.
The “Religious Leaders Forum and Graduation Ceremony,” a joint initiative by two prominent religious organizations, was set to take place in Paju, South Korea.
The event was expected to draw over 30,000 participants from 57 countries, including 1,000 religious leaders representing Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, and Hinduism.
However, the Gyeonggi Tourism Organization, a public entity under Gyeonggi Province, abruptly canceled the venue rental without prior notice.
This last-minute decision has resulted in significant financial damage to the international event. Organizers of this event stated that the cancellation constitutes an unconstitutional act of discrimination against a specific religion, violating religious freedom, human rights, and due process of law.
The hosting organizations, the Association for Buddhist National Unification of Korea and Shincheonji Church of Jesus, said that they had received official confirmation on October 23rd and 28th that there was no plan of cancellation.
They also said that the unilateral cancellation was an unreasonable administrative action targeting a specific religious group. They further emphasize that other events scheduled for the same day were not affected, suggesting that the cancellation was “administrative decision caused by opposition from a specific religious group,” which “violates the principle of separation of church and state guaranteed by the Constitution.”
The Gyeonggi Tourism Organization cited security concerns related to recent North Korean actions and the planned activities of a North Korean defector group as reasons for the cancellation.
However, it was pointed out that other events, such as civilian bike rides and foreign tourist visits to the DMZ, were permitted within the same designated area.
The incident has reignited international debate about religious freedom and tolerance in South Korea. The U.S. State Department’s International Religious Freedom Report has previously highlighted concerns such as the prosecution of Shincheonji Church of Jesus and the government’s refusal to approve mosque construction.
The Association for Buddhist National Unification of Korea and Shincheonji Church of Jesus have called upon the South Korean government to respect religious freedom, uphold human rights, and rectify this decision.
They urge international organizations to monitor this situation and take appropriate action to protect religious freedom.
“China has an important and attractive market, and the CIIE is incredibly big and diverse. It’s a wonderful opportunity for African businesses to tap into the Chinese market and understand what’s happening in the global market,” said Philip Myburgh, group head of trade at Standard Bank Business and Commercial Banking, in an interview with Xinhua ahead of the 7th CIIE due from Tuesday to Sunday in Shanghai.
Given that Africa sometimes takes a backseat or gets overshadowed by larger economies at global events, Myburgh said they expect more exposure to and attention from the international community.
“We are certainly getting a stronger presence at the CIIE, with the Africa pavilion bringing all made-in-Africa products together,” he said, adding that it’s encouraging to see more emphasis on Africa.
Standard Bank, which has participated in the CIIE since its inception, has hosted many promotional events to strengthen the connection between Africa and China, said the expert.
“We are seeing more diversity and stronger demand for African products showcased in the CIIE, and we are expecting more transactions, more interest, and more deals being signed this year,” he added.
During the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in September in Beijing, China committed to further opening its market to African agricultural products, with two protocols signed for the export of greasy wool and dairy products from South Africa to China.
In Myburgh’s opinion, the FOCAC marks a highlight of the China-Africa relationship as many infrastructure and funding projects were announced, and more partnership agreements signed. Meanwhile, the CIIE is a practical showcase of the theoretical and political commitments made at the FOCAC.
Myburgh said China’s efforts to promote high-level opening-up are welcomed by African countries and will boost Africa’s economic recovery and growth.
China plays an important role in helping African countries diversify their economies and boost growth, and has become a key off-taker for African products and a provider of critical technologies for the industrialization and sustainable development of the continent, he said.
Noting that Africa could benefit from more foreign exchange, Myburgh said exports to China could be a critical contributor to Africa’s economic growth.
It’s also crucial for African countries to learn from China when it comes to renewable energy and technologies to save water and conserve energy, said Myburgh, adding that the CIIE has offered a platform for Africans to learn from and collaborate with more important stakeholders.
He was speaking with IGIHE following social media speculation suggesting the presence of Rwandan troops in Maputo.
Anti-government protests have erupted in Maputo since the October 9 presidential election, which saw the ruling Frelimo party secure a victory.
According to official results, Frelimo’s presidential candidate, Daniel Chapo, won with 70.7% of the vote. However, opposition candidate Venancio Mondlane has rejected the results, alleging fraud and calling for public protests.
Amid these events, a social media user shared a video on X, claiming that Rwandan troops were among the security forces confronting protesters.
In response to this claim, Brig Gen Rwivanga clarified in an interview with IGIHE that the information is false, emphasizing that the deployment locations of Rwandan troops are known.
“It’s not true; we are in Cabo Delgado, and all our sectors are well-known: Palma, Mocimboa da Praia, Macomia, and Ancuabe. These are the sectors we were assigned, and the work we’re doing keeps us very busy,” he said.
Rwandan forces are assisting Mozambique’s army in combating militants who launched an armed uprising in 2017.
In response to the escalating violence and displacement, Rwanda began deploying its security forces to Mozambique on July 9, 2021.
Brig Gen Rwivanga clarified that Rwandan troops are currently engaged in managing the remaining rebels scattered across the designated sectors.
“What is happening in Maputo has nothing to do with us. None of our soldiers has set foot there. It’s just rumors,” he stated.
The spokesperson suggested that these rumors might stem from individuals aiming to disrupt peace or and portray the government as incapable.
“But for us, that’s not our concern. We don’t engage in speculation. We simply speak the facts. […] What we want is to ensure our operations are progressing well,” he added.
Before the intervention of Rwandan troops in 2021, the insurgency had claimed the lives of about 3,000 civilians, and more than 800,000 people had been displaced. The insecurity also brought all development projects in the insurgent-controlled areas to a standstill.
Since then, Rwandan security forces, in collaboration with Mozambique’s armed forces, have made substantial progress in dismantling the Al Sunna Wa Jama (ASWJ) terrorist group from their strongholds in Mocimboa da Praia and Palma. This has allowed a significant number of internally displaced people to return to their villages safely.
In addition to Rwanda’s support, Mozambique has also received military assistance from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) since 2021. However, SADC forces began withdrawing in April this year as their mandate approached its conclusion.
Rwanda and Mozambique have maintained strong diplomatic ties for many years, with cooperation agreements across various sectors, including security, trade, and investment.
The two leaders discussed ways to enhance bilateral relations between their nations, as confirmed by Rwanda’s Presidency.
President Kagame arrived in Samoa’s capital on Tuesday evening, where he was welcomed by Deputy Prime Minister Tuala Tevaga Iosefo Ponifasio.
Following his arrival, President Kagame met with Samoa’s Prime Minister, Afioga Fiamē Naomi Mata’afa, to explore avenues for strengthening cooperation between Rwanda and Samoa.
Kagame also met with the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Honourable Gaston Browne. The two leaders focused on fostering stronger diplomatic ties and exploring new areas of collaboration across various sectors.
In addition to these discussions, President Kagame attended the Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI) hosted by King Charles III.
The initiative focuses on sustainable development and climate action, key issues on this year’s agenda.
The Commonwealth, which consists of 56 member countries from all continents, includes 33 small states, of which 25 are island nations. By 2023, the Commonwealth’s population had grown to approximately 2.5 billion people.
President Kagame has served as Chairperson of the Commonwealth since June 2022, after Rwanda successfully hosted CHOGM that year.
This year’s meeting marks the end of Rwanda’s two-year chairmanship, with Samoa set to take over as Chair-In-Office.
Additionally, a new Secretary-General for the Commonwealth is expected to be elected during this year’s summit, replacing Patricia Scotland, who has held the position since March 2016.
CHOGM 2024 is a historic event, being the first-ever meeting held in a Pacific Small Island Developing State and the first since Gabon and Togo officially joined the Commonwealth, raising the total membership to 56 nations.
This year’s discussions will address critical global challenges, including economic, environmental, and security issues.
Leaders are also expected to focus on enhancing resilience, boosting trade, fostering innovation, and empowering the Commonwealth’s youth to build a more peaceful and sustainable future.
The main CHOGM event will take place on October 25, 2024, preceded by side meetings such as the Youth Forum, the Women’s Forum, and the Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on October 24.
Xi made the remarks when addressing the 16th BRICS Summit held in Kazan, Russia.
Russian President Vladimir Putin chaired the summit, which was also attended by Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, the United Arab Emirates’ President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva participated in the summit via video link.
During a small-group meeting, Xi welcomed new members to the BRICS family and invited many countries to become partner countries.
Xi pointed out that the enlargement of BRICS is a major milestone in its development history, and a landmark event in the evolution of the international situation. It is for their shared pursuit and for the overarching trend of peace and development that BRICS countries have come together, he said.
Stressing that the world is undergoing accelerated changes unseen in a century, marked by new trends of multipolarity and the risks of a “new Cold War,” Xi said BRICS countries should seize the historical opportunity, take proactive steps, remain committed to the original aspiration and mission of openness, inclusiveness and win-win cooperation, conform to the general trend of the rise of the Global South, seek common ground while reserving differences, work in concert to further consolidate common values, safeguard common interests, and strengthen BRICS countries through unity.
“We must work together to build BRICS into a primary channel for strengthening solidarity and cooperation among Global South nations and a vanguard for advancing global governance reform,” Xi said.
He stressed that the more turbulent the world is, the more BRICS countries should uphold the banner of peace, development and win-win cooperation, refining the essence of BRICS and demonstrating its strength. BRICS countries should raise the voice of peace, advocating a new path to security that features dialogue over confrontation and partnership over alliance.
Xi urged BRICS countries to jointly pursue a path of development, advocate a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, and stay committed to the principle of common development. He said BRICS countries should consolidate the foundation of cooperation, deepen cooperation in traditional areas such as agriculture, energy, minerals, economy and trade, expand cooperation in emerging areas such as green, low-carbon and artificial intelligence, and safeguard trade, investment and financial security.
The Chinese president then attended a large-scale meeting, made important statements on BRICS’ future development and put forward five suggestions.
“As the world enters a new period defined by turbulence and transformation, we are confronted with pivotal choices that will shape our future. Should we allow the world to descend into the abyss of disorder and chaos, or should we strive to steer it back on the path of peace and development?” Xi said.
He stressed that the more tumultuous our times become, the more firmly we must stand at the forefront, exhibiting tenacity, demonstrating the audacity to pioneer and displaying the wisdom to adapt, adding that China is willing to work with all BRICS countries to open a new horizon in the high-quality development of greater BRICS cooperation.
“We should build a BRICS committed to peace, and we must all act as defenders of common security,” Xi said. Only by embracing the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security can we pave the way for universal security, he added.
Xi urged the BRICS countries to uphold the three key principles: no expansion of the battlefields, no escalation of hostilities, and no fanning flames, and strive for swift deescalation of the situation in Ukraine.
He also urged BRICS countries to promote an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and make unremitting efforts toward a comprehensive, just and lasting resolution of the Palestinian question.
“We should build a BRICS committed to innovation, and we must all act as pioneers of high-quality development,” Xi said. “We must keep pace with the times and foster new quality productive forces.”
Xi said China has recently launched a China-BRICS Artificial Intelligence Development and Cooperation Center, and will establish a BRICS Deep-Sea Resources International Research Center, a China Center for Cooperation on Development of Special Economic Zones in BRICS Countries, a China Center for BRICS Industrial Competencies, and a BRICS Digital Ecosystem Cooperation Network, welcoming active participation from all interested parties.
“We should build a BRICS committed to green development, and we must all act as promoters of sustainable development,” Xi said.
He noted that China’s high-quality production capacity, as exemplified by its electric vehicles, lithium batteries and photovoltaic products, provides a significant boost to global green development.
Xi said China is willing to expand cooperation with BRICS countries in green industries, clean energy and green mining, and promote green development through the entire industrial chain, so as to increase the “green quotient” of our cooperation and upgrade the quality of our development.
“We should build a BRICS committed to justice, and we must all act as forerunners in reforming global governance,” Xi said.
He said the international power dynamics is undergoing profound changes, but global governance reform has lagged behind for a long time, urging BRICS countries to champion true multilateralism and adhere to the vision of global governance characterized by extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits.
Xi said BRICS countries must ensure that global governance reform is guided by the principles of fairness, justice, openness and inclusiveness, and enhance the representation and voice of developing nations in global governance.
Xi said BRICS countries should promote the connectivity of financial infrastructure, apply high standards of financial security, expand and strengthen the New Development Bank, ensuring that the international financial system more effectively reflects the changes in the global economic landscape.
“We should build a BRICS committed to closer people-to-people exchanges, and we must all act as advocates for harmonious coexistence among all civilizations,” Xi said.
Stressing that it is important that BRICS countries promote the spirit of inclusiveness and harmonious coexistence among civilizations and enhance the exchange of governance experiences among BRICS countries, Xi said he is delighted to see that the initiative for BRICS digital education cooperation has become a reality, and China will implement a capacity-building program for BRICS digital education, open 10 learning centers in BRICS countries in the next five years, and provide training opportunities for 1,000 local education administrators, teachers and students.
China is willing to work with BRICS countries to open a new horizon in the high-quality development of greater BRICS cooperation, and jointly promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind, Xi concluded.
Under the theme of “Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security,” the participating leaders exchanged in-depth views on BRICS cooperation and major international issues of common interest.
The leaders made positive comments on the development of BRICS institutions and the important role they have played in addressing global challenges, expressing the belief that BRICS countries, with their large population, rich resources, huge development potential, growing appeal and international influence, have become a model of multilateralism.
They called on BRICS countries to uphold the BRICS spirit, strengthen solidarity and coordination, deepen the strategic partnership within greater BRICS, enhance cooperation in politics and security, economy, trade and finance, people-to-people and cultural exchanges, promote an equal and orderly multipolar world, a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, and sustainable development of the world, and further increase the voice and representation of the Global South in international affairs, and promote the building of a more just and equitable international order.
The leaders vowed to safeguard multilateralism, uphold the core role of the United Nations in the international system, and support the United Nations in playing an important role in global governance such as artificial intelligence.
They also expressed commitment to peacefully resolving disputes through dialogue and consultation, support all efforts conducive to a peaceful settlement of crisis, and respect the legitimate security concerns of all countries.
The leaders agreed to promote reform of the existing international economic and financial architecture and build the New Development Bank into a new type of multilateral development bank for the 21st century.
They also commended the UN General Assembly for adopting relevant resolutions on the China-proposed International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations, calling for respect for the diversity of world civilizations and strengthening exchanges and mutual learning among different civilizations.
The Kazan Declaration of the 16th BRICS Summit was issued and the establishment of BRICS partners was announced at the summit.
During the summit, the BRICS leaders also heard reports on the work of President of the New Development Bank Dilma Rousseff and other heads of BRICS institutions.
Home to over 10 million Uygur Muslims and 47 ethnic groups, it’s a true cultural melting pot, shaped by its history as a vital hub of the ancient Silk Road.
From the awe-inspiring Taklamakan Desert to the serene beauty of Kanas Lake, and the vibrant city of Urumqi, Xinjiang is a treasure trove for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility.
Whether it’s the fiery Flaming Mountains or the peaceful grasslands dotted with traditional yurts, the reality on the ground is a province full of life, color, and captivating stories that go far beyond the misconceptions.
Ready to discover a side of Xinjiang the world rarely shows? Here are 15 interesting facts about Xinjiang:
{{1. Urumqi, the world’s most remote city from the Sea}}
Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang which recently hosted the 6th World Media Summit, holds the distinct honor of being the city furthest from any sea or ocean in the world.
It is located about 2,500 kilometers from the nearest coastline. Despite its geographical remoteness, Urumqi is a major city in western China and a vibrant center of culture, commerce, and tourism.
{{2. A land of ethnic diversity}}
Xinjiang is home to 47 different ethnic groups, with the Uygurs being the largest group, making up about 48% (over 10 million) of the population.
However, many other ethnicities also call this region home, including Han Chinese, Kazakhs, Hui Muslims, and others.
This rich mix of cultures gives Xinjiang its unique character, as these groups coexist while maintaining their own distinct traditions, languages, and religious practices.
{{3. Silk Road Legacy}}
Xinjiang’s history is intertwined with the famous Silk Road, an ancient trade route that connected China to Europe and the Middle East.
This route that passed through this province facilitated not only the exchange of goods but also ideas, religions, and cultures.
Cities like Kashgar became vital trading hubs, where merchants from distant lands met to trade silk, spices, and other goods. This historic connection to the Silk Road has made Xinjiang a melting pot of cultures and religions.
{{4. Sharing borders with eight countries}}
Geographically, Xinjiang shares borders with eight countries, more than any other region in China.
These countries include Mongolia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India.
This location makes Xinjiang a key strategic area for China and contributes to the rich cultural and economic exchanges that have shaped the region’s history.
{{5. A unique time zone difference}}
Though all of China officially runs on Beijing Time, Xinjiang operates on its own unofficial schedule due to its distance from the capital.
Xinjiang is two hours behind Beijing, and locals often adjust their routines accordingly.
People typically start work at 11 a.m., eat lunch at 2 p.m., and leave work at 7 p.m., with daylight lasting until well into the evening in the summer months.
{{6. China’s largest provincial region}}
Spanning 1.66 million square kilometers, Xinjiang covers one-sixth of China’s total territory.
The region’s vastness is mirrored by the diversity of its geography, which includes deserts, mountains, grasslands, and lakes.
Bayinbuluk is the second-largest grassland in China, offering a glimpse of
nomadic life with yurts, grazing herds, and Swan Lake, home to thousands of swans and
migratory birds.
It also has the longest international borders of any province in China, making it a crucial gateway to Central Asia.
{{7. The land of extreme landscapes}}
Xinjiang is a region of contrasts when it comes to its landscapes. It is home to the Taklamakan Desert, China’s largest shifting desert and the second-largest in the world, known as the “Sea of Death.”
On the other hand, it also boasts K2, the second-highest mountain in the world at 8,611 meters (28,251 feet) above sea level.
Furthermore, the region contains Aydingkol Lake in Turpan, the second-lowest point on Earth at 155 meters (509 feet) below sea level.
{{8. One of China’s main fruit-producing regions}}
Xinjiang’s unique climate—long sunny days and significant temperature differences between day and night—makes it an ideal place for growing fruits.
The region is famous for its Hami melons, Turpan seedless grapes, Korla pears, and Ili apples.
It also produces cotton, lavender, and other agricultural products like tomatoes, mutton, beef, and jujube. This agricultural richness has made Xinjiang an essential part of China’s food supply.
{{9. A hub of religious diversity}}
Thanks to its long history and diverse population, Xinjiang is a region where multiple religions thrive.
Islam, which is the dominant religion among the Uygurs, coexists with Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity, and Eastern Orthodoxy.
This religious diversity is reflected in the region’s architecture, with mosques, Buddhist temples, and Christian churches all present in the region.
{{10. Traditional cuisine}}
Xinjiang’s cuisine reflects the cultural influences of its various ethnic groups. The region is known for its hearty meat dishes, especially lamb.
One of its most famous dishes is “Polo,” a pilaf made with rice, lamb, carrots, and various spices.
Another beloved dish is “Dapanji,” a spicy chicken stew often served with hand-pulled noodles. For vegetarians, Xinjiang offers dishes like mung bean salad and vegetable Polo, proving that the region’s cuisine caters to all tastes.
{{11. Kanas Lake and its legendary monster}}
In northern Xinjiang lies Kanas Lake, a stunning alpine lake surrounded by Siberian forests and rolling grasslands.
The lake’s beauty has inspired legends, including the tale of a mysterious lake monster similar to the Loch Ness Monster. For decades of years, legends of an enormous water monster in the lake have captured the imagination of locals and visitors.
Whether or not the monster exists, Kanas Lake remains a top destination for travelers, offering breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities for hiking, photography, and wildlife spotting.
{{12. It has the longest airline routes in China}}
Xinjiang currently has 16 airports, the most of all provinces and regions in China. This is naturally because of the fact that it is the largest province-level division of China.
The region’s vast distances make air travel essential, and the government has invested heavily in building roads, airports, and railways to ensure Xinjiang remains well-connected to the rest of China and beyond.
{{13. Extreme temperatures}}
Xinjiang is known for its dramatic temperature swings. It’s not uncommon for temperatures to drop significantly at night after a hot day.
Locals often say that in Xinjiang, you can wear a fur coat in the morning and a t-shirt by the afternoon.
This large daily temperature variation is particularly evident in the Turpan Basin, one of the hottest places in China, where temperatures can reach up to 47.8°C (118°F).
{{14. Mineral riches}}
Xinjiang is home to more than 80% of China’s discovered mineral types,
including nephrite jade, making it an important part of the country’s economy.
{{15. Tourism boom}}
In recent years, Xinjiang has become a major tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors from both within China and abroad.
Between January and September 2024 alone, the region welcomed 245 million tourists, contributing over 287.58 billion yuan (around 40.4 billion U.S. dollars) to the economy.
Visitors flock to Xinjiang to experience its stunning landscapes, such as Tianchi Lake, the Taklamakan Desert, and the Pamirs Plateau, Flaming Mountain as well as its vibrant bazaars and rich cultural heritage among others.
Xinjiang’s unique geography, rich history, and vibrant cultures make it a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience the true diversity of China.
