Sichuan issues around 20 mln USD in vouchers to boost winter tourism

Southwest China's Sichuan Province has issued 150 million yuan (around 20.63 million U.S. dollars) in vouchers and subsidies to attract more visitors from around the world to enjoy the region's stunning views in winter.

A campaign to promote winter tourism in Sichuan Province was launched on Saturday at the scenic Jiuzhaigou Valley in northern Sichuan, marking the start of the province's "Winter Tourism Consumption Season."

In addition to coupons, the province will distribute 100,000 free tickets for scenic spots rated 4A and above. It has also launched a series of exciting activities from December this year to March next year, including 5,000 cultural events and 10 new premium travel routes featuring World Heritage sites.

Local authorities are leveraging the region's ice and snow resources to boost tourism, offering enhanced services and implementing more favorable policies.

"To the south, there's warm sunshine, while to the northwest, you'll find trekking routes through high-altitude glaciers. Plus, there are hot springs scattered throughout the province. The stunning scenery, delicious food, and well-developed infrastructure make it an ideal destination for both domestic and international visitors during winter and the Chinese New Year," said Dong Li, president of the Sichuan Provincial Tourism Association.

The province's ice and snow now offer tourists splendid scenery.

In Jiuzhaigou Valley, emerald-colored lakes sparkle amidst snow-covered trees, transforming the area into a fairytale world and offering picturesque views for tourists.

At Niubei Mountain, a scenic spot in Ya'an City, a viewing platform offers tourists panoramic views of the snow-covered Gongga Mountain, also known as Minya Konka or the 'King of Sichuan Mountains,' with a peak of 7,556 meters. Tourists can even take helicopter rides to capture these breathtaking views with their cameras.

"I've dreamed of visiting Niubei Mountain for ten years, and today that dream finally came true. Taking the helicopter to see the magnificent mountain views is absolutely worth it!" said a tourist from Chongqing in southwest China.

In Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan, a ski resort spanning 18,000 square meters on Xiling Snow Mountain is ready to provide a thrilling experience for ski enthusiasts.

In Xichang, tourists can stroll along the shores of Qionghai Lake, soaking in the stunning lakeside scenery while basking in the sunshine. They can also explore the historic Jianchang Ancient City to to delve into its unique ethnic culture.

"Wandering through the streets of Jianchang Ancient City, I can immerse myself in its historical ambiance, which brings me a sense of relaxation," said a visitor from Guizhou in southwest China.

Sichuan issues around 20 mln USD in vouchers to boost winter tourism

Israel aims to fuel division among Lebanese factions by holding direct talks with the Lebanese government, said a senior Hezbollah official in an interview with China Global Television Network (CGTN).

Bilal Lakkis, a member of Hezbollah's Central Committee, said Israel's military plans are failing in southern Lebanon, with no prominent military gains despite weeks of bombardment.

Israel has been bombarding most bridges over the Litani River, leaving only about two intact, in what appears to be an attempt to create an expanded buffer zone or to advance further north. Asked how Hezbollah views this strategy, Lakkis dismissed Israeli objectives as incoherent and militarily unachieved.

"Every day one of Israel's leaders says something different. Some say 'we need protection from the attacks', others say they want an occupation to settle the Israeli military. A third group says they want a buffer zone. A buffer zone needs a huge military victory, which has not been achieved. This proves that there is hesitance among them, there is no clarity. In any case, the region south of the river, some parts of it are just three kilometers between the river and the occupied Palestinian territories, so it doesn't achieve security," he said.

The United States hosted political talks for the first time in decades between the Lebanese government and Israel this week. Asked whether any agreement could be implemented without Hezbollah's consent and what Israel seeks from these negotiations, Lakkis was unequivocal in his rejection.

"The government is violating all laws. Some in Lebanon had hopes that the war on Iran would hit the brain, all the affiliates would perish. Instead they found success in holding negotiations in Pakistan. Every time Netanyahu fails militarily, he attempts to fuel the division within the Lebanese body," he said.

Asked about whether Hezbollah would avoid actions that might fuel such divisions, Lakkis emphasized the group's commitment to internal stability.

"The resistance in Lebanon doesn't want any internal instability. That is a long-standing historic stance. It's a red line for us to tamper with peace and stability. Moreover, the Arab and the Islamic support towards the resistance and Hezbollah specifically is at its best. To resist that is a way more valuable gain than to be dragged against an internal party. We are keen on national unity and Islamic unity," he said.

Hezbollah official says Israel aims to fuel division among Lebanese factions