China's largest land port for automobile exports, the Horgos Port in northwest Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, saw vehicle exports reach a record high in the first quarter of this year.
According to statistics released by the Horgos Customs on Wednesday, 85,000 vehicles were exported via the port last year, marking a year-on-year increase of 13.1 percent.
The port, bordering Kazakhstan, has become a "golden channel" for Chinese vehicles, particularly new energy vehicles (NEVs), to reach international markets.
Chinese NEVs have become a key driver of the growth in exports, gaining popularity across Central Asia and Russia due to their technological competitiveness and cost efficiency, according to the customs.
Major Xinjiang port sees record export of 85,000 vehicles in Q1
A group of Australian students is touring China, visiting cultural landmarks, experiencing daily life, and playing basketball with Chinese students.
The trip follows an initiative proposed last year by Chinese President Xi Jinping during his meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, to encourage more young Australians to visit China. This group is among the first to take part.
The 2026 China-Australia (Queensland) Youth International Basketball Friendship Match tipped off in Beijing on Friday, bringing together young players from both countries.
"It was really good, really intense game. It was close. They are really good shooters, and they are a very physical team. It was a fun game to play," said Sabian Townsend, an Australian high school student and basketball player from Runcorn Rockets Basketball Club.
"I think it's a great game. And I think this is a game we can learn a lot," said Guo Naiqi, a student from China's Capital Normal University High School.
The group has spent several days traveling across China, with Beijing as the final stop, and basketball standing out as a key highlight. While competition remains part of the game, the emphasis here is on connection, shared experiences, and building friendships.
"Basically, they are very nice for all the time. So, our leaders, guests and students, they are really, really friendly. So, I just have to be really authentic, be me," said Zhang Xiuyu, another Chinese student from Capital Normal University High School.
Beyond the court, Chinese and Australian students engaged in traditional arts and crafts, offering them a deeper, hands-on understanding of Chinese culture.
"It's good. It's like really unique. Once you get the hang of it, it's easy," said Daniel Nicolas, an Australian high school student.
"I think it is very good, and I'm glad to build a connection between us, and between China and Australia," said Zhao Zeyi, a student from Capital Normal University High School.
From basketball to cultural experiences, the exchange goes far beyond the game itself. In these shared moments, young people from China and Australia are building friendship and discovering common ground. And perhaps, this is where the future of people-to-people ties is taking shape.
Young Chinese, Australians connected through basketball, culture
