Rare Ibex goats caught on camera scaling treacherous rocks in China's Xinjiang

Ibex goats, a wild species under national second-class protection, were recently captured on camera scaling treacherous rocks in the high-altitude areas of the Kunlun Mountains near Kunyu City in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

In the video footage, these robust and agile goats effortlessly navigated steep rocks with astonishing climbing ability, at times hugging the rockface to scout their path, and at others leaping onto narrow ledges - all while maintaining perfect balance on near-vertical terrain.

The ibex goats are among the mammals that inhabit the highest altitudes, active in rugged areas ranging from 3,500 to 6,000 meters in altitude. They are adept at climbing and leaping on bare rocky plateaus and steep slopes.

In recent years, the population of ibex goats in the Kunlun Mountains area of Xinjiang has been steadily increasing, contributing significantly to the preservation of local biodiversity and the maintenance of ecological balance.

""We have currently observed over 150 wildlife species, with more than 20 species, including ibex goats, Tibetan antelopes, and red deer, being under national protection. Ibex goats, as a typical species in the region, are frequently monitored," said Yusufjan Yakup, an official from the Kunyu Municipal Natural Resources and Planning Department.

Rare Ibex goats caught on camera scaling treacherous rocks in China's Xinjiang

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung said on Wednesday that Seoul firmly adheres to the one-China principle, in comments made ahead of his upcoming state visit to China.

The remarks were made in an interview with China Media Group (CMG). The visit is scheduled for Jan 4–7.

"The consensus reached between governments of the Republic of Korea and China when diplomatic relations were established continues to be the fundamental principle governing our relations, and its effectiveness remains steadfast. I want to clearly state that the ROK has always adhered to the one-China principle. Maintaining peace and stability in regional matters, including in Northeast Asia and concerning the Taiwan issue, holds significant importance to us," said Lee.

"The foundational relationship between the ROK and China was established on a very principled and fundamental basis from the beginning. It is clear that the ROK government has always adhered to this position and has never wavered from it. I believe that the sound development of ROK-China relations depends on both sides fully respecting each other's core interests and being mutually tolerant of each other's positions. In this context, we will, as always, uphold the one-China principle as the Taiwan issue is China's most fundamental concern," he said.

ROK president reiterates firm adherence to one-China principle