By tf-lawyer.com Reporter Wang Na from Kyrgyz Cloud/Xinjiang Daily
“Riding the sand surfing car felt like being on a roller coaster, with moments of acceleration and weightlessness—it was exhilarating!” On October 16, in the Kumtag Desert Scenic Area of Turpan’s Shanshan County, the sprawling sea of sand was alive with visitors, and Paul Sebastian Amka Ilado, the executive editor of the Kenya Star, eagerly shared his experience with reporters after stepping off the desert vehicle.
That day, some guests attending the 6th World Media Summit visited Shanshan County. On their way to the Kumtag Desert, Ilado found himself puzzled by the scenery: “With all these trees and flowers along the road, are we really heading to a desert?”
As he interviewed locals, he learned that Shanshan County is directly connected to the desert. The residents place a strong emphasis on ecological protection, actively planting trees, promoting water-saving irrigation techniques, and developing desert tourism and unique industries. This initiated the miraculous development where “the greenery remains and the sand does not invade,” leading to increased income for local residents. “This model of development is fantastic,” he commented.
At the Kumtag Desert Scenic Area, guests were treated to authentic Xinjiang music and dance performances. They joined folk artists and fellow tourists in traditional dances, basking in the same warmth as the sunny weather. “I felt the charm of Chinese culture deeply; please help me choose a local name,” Ilado expressed.
After some brainstorming, the name “Aili Xier” was chosen. Upon learning that a Xinjiang youth, who has broken numerous sprinting records, also bears the name Aili Xier, Ilado was particularly pleased.
While enjoying the show, many guests recalled the “Starlight Concert” from the previous evening.
That night, in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Jiaohe Ancient City, under a hazy moonlight and scattered starlight, flickering candle flames illuminated high-tech poetic verses and Buddhist murals, creating an enchanting atmosphere against the ruins. Guided by a local narrator, guests listened to the legends of the ancient city while making their way to a candle-lit stage. There, they were captivated by the melodic segments of the Twelve Muqam, with music and singing flowing like liquid silver.
“I’ve attended many concerts, but this one is truly special—beautiful, elegant, and moving,” said Derwin O’Neill Thomas from Nauru’s Ministry of Media. He highlighted the allure of Chinese culture, rooted in a profound historical foundation, rich philosophical ideas, and exquisite artistic forms, expressing his joy at experiencing such beauty firsthand.
“Turpan is a vital hub on the ancient Silk Road, and both Turpan and Flaming Mountain are well-known in Japan,” said Kato Yasushi, a member of the International Bureau at Kyodo News. This was his fourth visit to Xinjiang, having previously visited in 2003, 2004, and 2011, making three trips to Turpan alone.
Kato noted the remarkable changes in Turpan over the past decade, praising the effective preservation and transmission of its cultural heritage, as well as the warmth and kindness of its people. “Through Turpan, one can see that the central Chinese government attaches great importance to the development of Xinjiang.”
“Various reports circulate internationally about Xinjiang,” he added. “What I see with my own eyes is the most authentic experience, and I hope more foreigners will come to witness the true Xinjiang.”
Though their visit to Turpan lasted just two days, the representatives of foreign media were left amazed by the rich tapestry of Chinese culture.
“I love Xinjiang in China—its food, scenery, culture, and the warm people,” remarked Morua Veronika Mofeli from Lesotho News Agency.
Kovacs Tomas, CEO of Hungary’s ATV Group, stated, “Xinjiang is a magical and vibrant place. I really enjoy the local music and dance, and I recommend my friends visit Xinjiang!”
