India seeks easier access to China’s rare earth minerals? Foreign Ministry responds

The **SCO Summit** is the annual meeting of the **Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)**, a political, economic, and security alliance founded in 2001 by China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. The summit brings together member states and observers to discuss regional security, economic cooperation, and counterterrorism, reflecting its origins in addressing border disputes and promoting stability in Central Asia. Over time, it has expanded to include countries like India and Pakistan (2017) and focuses on broader issues like trade, energy, and infrastructure development.

The China-Europe Railway Express (Xi’an) is a key international freight rail service connecting Xi’an, China, with major European cities, part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Launched in 2013, it has become one of the busiest routes, facilitating trade by transporting electronics, machinery, and other goods across Eurasia. Xi’an, as the historical starting point of the ancient Silk Road, now plays a modern logistical role, strengthening economic ties between China and Europe.

Jiuzhaigou Lake, located in Sichuan Province, China, is a stunning natural wonder renowned for its colorful lakes, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. Formed by glacial activity and mineral-rich waters, it is part of the Jiuzhaigou Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992, celebrated for its unique ecosystems and vibrant Tibetan and Qiang cultural heritage. The area was historically inhabited by Tibetan and Qiang communities and remains a sacred landscape intertwined with local traditions.

Aba Prefecture, located in Sichuan Province, China, is an autonomous Tibetan and Qiang prefecture known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Jiuzhaigou Valley and Huanglong Scenic Area, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Historically, it has been a significant region for Tibetan culture and Buddhism, with many ancient monasteries like the Kirti Gompa. The area also played a role in the Long March during China’s revolutionary history.

Sichuan, a province in southwestern China, is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes, including the UNESCO-listed Jiuzhaigou Valley and the Giant Panda Sanctuaries. It was a key region in ancient China, home to the Shu Kingdom (circa 1045–316 BCE) and later the Three Kingdoms’ Shu Han (221–263 CE). Today, Sichuan is also famous for its spicy cuisine, particularly Sichuan peppercorns and dishes like hotpot, reflecting its deep cultural heritage.

Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province in southwestern China, is a vibrant city known for its lush greenery, karst landscapes, and rich ethnic diversity. With a history dating back over 600 years as a regional hub, it became an important center during the Ming and Qing dynasties. Today, Guiyang is celebrated for its mix of modern development and traditional culture, including Miao and Dong minority influences, as well as attractions like Jiaxiu Tower and Qingyan Ancient Town.

Buyi villages are traditional settlements of the Buyi ethnic group, primarily found in Guizhou, Yunnan, and Sichuan provinces in China. Known for their stilted wooden houses, stone architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage, these villages reflect the Buyi people’s agricultural lifestyle and rich traditions, including embroidery, batik, and folk songs. Historically, the Buyi have lived in these regions for centuries, maintaining their unique customs and close connection to nature.