Latest news with #SilkRoad
New York Times
2 hours ago
- New York Times
On the Silk Road, Traces of Once Bustling Intercontinental Trade
Lahore, Pakistan, is more visibly armed than Alabama, choked by Kafka-grade bureaucracy and pollution so thick you spit gray into the sink when you brush your teeth. These realities do not mar Lahore's five spreads in THE SILK ROAD: A Living History (Hemeria, $55), a sometimes beautiful travelogue of landscapes, buildings and faces along the route that once conveyed untold wealth between Europe and China, before the 16th century took trade out to sea. What the photographer Christopher Wilton-Steer does catch is the odd potential for solitude in a city so populous, as well as its architectural dignity and the benevolent pride with which Pakistanis regard outsiders. Wilton-Steer is a Londoner. In his overland trek spanning thousands of miles and 170 photographs, taken from both drone and ground vantages, his goal is feel-good: to prove that the Silk Road's 'legacy of interconnectivity and exchange' lives today, he writes, even if the literal goods now go by boat. The photos deliver. Because they flow west to east in the book, and because Wilton-Steer's favorite angles emerge as patterns throughout, they braid a telling human gradient: from onion domes in Venice to the pitched facades of Uzbekistan, from a Christian stele in Turkey to a Buddhist one in South Asia, from Uyghur faces to Han ones across China. And much to his credit, he doesn't falsely rusticate. His natives drive trucks past ruined Soviet airstrips. They wear cheugy leopard-print sweaters when they spin wool. That's life. But revelation isn't the endgame of the picturesque. Wilton-Steer's crinkled peaks and tender children of Tajikistan are prettily shot, but does it matter that the new schools, infrastructures, marketplaces and tourist centers that he depicts have been funded by the Aga Khan IV, the late billionaire developer and Muslim leader whose foundation also financed the photographer's voyage? (Wilton-Steer is the organization's head of communications.) This welcome if partisan book optimistically suggests that although container ships do the carrying now, cultural traders are alive and well on the Silk Road.
Bloomberg
15 hours ago
- Business
- Bloomberg
Mideast War Won't Shut Down the Silicon Road
The big theme in Asian supply chains over the past decade has been relocation. Entire industries have sought to pare their reliance on China by shifting manufacturing to other low-cost destinations like Vietnam and India. Japanese carmakers and Indian pharmaceutical firms have chosen Mexico to be closer to American demand. More recently, however, a new route is emerging — from Asia to the Middle East. Speculation that the US is on the verge of joining Israel's attack on Iran may unsettle business leaders' current plans and delay activity along the corridor. However, as long as hostilities don't spiral into a catastrophic event, such as the closing of the all-important Strait of Hormuz to shipping, they are unlikely to derail the economic case for a reprisal of the historic Silk Road.
Time Business News
16 hours ago
- Time Business News
Best Travel Routes in Kyrgyzstan with a Private Driver
Kyrgyzstan, often called the 'Switzerland of Central Asia,' is a land of rugged mountain ranges, alpine lakes, and unspoiled nomadic culture. For travelers looking to truly explore its remote beauty and vibrant traditions, the best way to get around is to hire a driver with car in Bishkek. Not only does this allow for a flexible and stress-free journey, but it also connects you with a knowledgeable local who can help you navigate routes, communicate with locals, and discover hidden gems along the way. Whether you're visiting for adventure, culture, or relaxation, a private driver opens up the country in ways that packaged tours or self-driving just can't match. Travel in Kyrgyzstan comes with unique challenges. The terrain is mountainous, road signage can be confusing (especially if you don't read Cyrillic), and public transport to scenic or rural areas is sparse. While renting a car and driving yourself is an option, it's not always ideal due to narrow roads, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather in high-altitude areas. A private driver offers a reliable and comfortable alternative. You get the convenience of a personal vehicle and the local expertise of someone who knows the roads, culture, and language. Many private drivers are also happy to act as informal guides, pointing out sites you wouldn't find on your own and helping you make the most of your trip. Let's take a look at some of the most scenic and culturally rich travel routes in Kyrgyzstan that are best experienced with a private driver starting from Bishkek. Distance : ~250 km : ~250 km Travel Time: 4-5 hours This is one of the most popular routes in the country, and for good reason. Issyk Kul is a stunning alpine lake surrounded by the Tien Shan mountains. The northern route passes through towns like Tokmok and Cholpon Ata, offering great spots for history and leisure. Burana Tower : A historic minaret from the Silk Road era. : A historic minaret from the Silk Road era. Cholpon Ata Petroglyphs : Open-air rock carvings dating back to the Bronze Age. : Open-air rock carvings dating back to the Bronze Age. Resort beaches: Perfect for a summer swim or boat ride. With a private driver, you can stop at your leisure, avoid crowded marshrutkas (minibuses), and perhaps even detour into nearby valleys like Chon-Kemin or Grigorievka. Distance : ~400 km : ~400 km Travel Time: 6-8 hours with stops Karakol is the gateway to the eastern mountains, famous for trekking, skiing, and hot springs. The southern route to Karakol is less traveled but offers extraordinary scenery. Fairy Tale Canyon (Skazka) : Surreal red rock formations shaped by wind and time. : Surreal red rock formations shaped by wind and time. Barskoon Waterfall : A peaceful stop for a short hike. : A peaceful stop for a short hike. Jeti-Ögüz Gorge: Known for its red rock formations like the 'Seven Bulls' and 'Broken Heart.' Your driver can help you time visits to avoid crowds and even assist with finding yurt stays or guesthouses along the way. Distance : ~300 km : ~300 km Travel Time: 6-7 hours This route takes you deep into the heart of Kyrgyzstan's nomadic culture. Song Kul is a high-altitude lake (over 3,000 meters) surrounded by vast summer pastures. Overnight in a yurt : Experience life like a nomad. : Experience life like a nomad. Horseback riding : Popular in the area. : Popular in the area. Stunning sunrises: A photographer's dream. Roads to Song Kul are rough and often require 4×4 vehicles, especially in spring and early summer. A private driver ensures safe and steady travel and can help coordinate your lodging with local families. Distance : ~700 km : ~700 km Travel Time: 12–14 hours (best broken over two days) This is one of Kyrgyzstan's most epic drives, cutting through the central Tien Shan mountains and descending into the Fergana Valley. Too-Ashuu Pass : A dramatic mountain pass with panoramic views. : A dramatic mountain pass with panoramic views. Toktogul Reservoir : A turquoise lake perfect for photo stops. : A turquoise lake perfect for photo stops. Local villages: Get a real feel for rural life in Kyrgyzstan. Due to the route's complexity, hiring a driver is almost essential — especially one familiar with mountain conditions and variable weather. Distance : ~800–900 km : ~800–900 km Travel Time: 2–3 days recommended This western route brings you into lush walnut forests, lakes, and agricultural areas rich in flora and fauna. Arslanbob : Home to the largest natural walnut forest in the world. : Home to the largest natural walnut forest in the world. Sary-Chelek Biosphere Reserve: A serene lake surrounded by protected forests and mountains. A driver can help arrange accommodations in remote villages and ensure you don't miss any key viewpoints or cultural experiences. Choosing to hire a driver with car in Bishkek comes with several perks: Stress-Free Navigation : Avoid getting lost or dealing with unfamiliar road conditions. : Avoid getting lost or dealing with unfamiliar road conditions. Local Knowledge : Gain insights on local history, customs, and cuisine. : Gain insights on local history, customs, and cuisine. Flexible Itineraries : Go at your own pace, with the freedom to stop and explore. : Go at your own pace, with the freedom to stop and explore. Safe Transport : Roads can be challenging, especially in rural and mountain regions; an experienced driver ensures a smoother journey. : Roads can be challenging, especially in rural and mountain regions; an experienced driver ensures a smoother journey. Help with Language: Many local drivers understand basic English and can translate when needed. When booking a driver, look for trusted companies with a proven track record. Doctour Kyrgyz is a highly recommended provider offering professional drivers, well-maintained vehicles, and flexible travel options. Whether you need a short transfer or a multi-day expedition, their services can be tailored to fit your needs. Kyrgyzstan is one of the few places in the world where adventure, nature, and culture blend so effortlessly — and the best way to see it all is by road. From emerald valleys and glacier-fed lakes to ancient Silk Road towns and nomadic traditions, there's something magical at every turn. Hiring a driver with car in Bishkek gives you the freedom to explore safely, comfortably, and meaningfully. It's not just about getting from point A to B — it's about the journey, the stories, and the people you meet along the way. So, if you're planning a trip to Kyrgyzstan, consider investing in the luxury of local knowledge and private mobility. The mountains are calling — and your driver is ready. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
"Silk and the Silk Road" Exhibition from China National Silk Museum Debuts in Kazakhstan
HANGZHOU, China, June 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In a vibrant celebration of cultural exchange, the "Silk and the Silk Road: From China to Kazakhstan" exhibition opened at the National Museum of Kazakhstan on June 16. This flagship event of Kazakhstan's "China Tourism Year" coincides with the second China-Central Asia Summit, marking a significant new chapter in cross-cultural dialogue. The opening ceremony wooed attendees with a fusion of Chinese and Kazakh artistic traditions – from the timeless melody of "High Mountains and Flowing Water" on the Guqin (traditional Chinese musical instrument) to the energetic Kazakh dance. A showstopping fashion presentation featured models in exquisite Hanfu (traditional Chinese dress) alongside Kazakh national costumes, creating a visual dialogue across centuries. Highlights of the exhibition include 145 rare artifacts tracing 2,000 years of silk history, three immersive sections: The Birth of Silk, Routes That Changed the World, and Silk in Daily Life. Star exhibits feature 8th-century textiles that showcase extraordinary craftsmanship, adorned with motifs reflecting the rich cultural fusion along the ancient trade routes. Visitors can also experience living traditions through "Beyond the Mulberry Fields: China Sericulture Intangible Cultural Heritages" – interactive demonstrations of UNESCO-listed silk techniques like kesi (silk tapestry) and intricate embroidery by master artisans. Beyond the gallery, scholars from both nations are convening to discuss the preservation of textile heritage, while Hanfu cultural activities bring ancient fashions to life across Astana. The exhibition forms part of China National Silk Museum's Global Showcase programme, with previous shows from seven countries including among others, France, Hungary and Uzbekistan. "These silks are more than artifacts – they're threads connecting our shared history," remarked Zhang Chengming, the museum deputy director during the opening. The exhibition runs through August 8, offering visitors a rare opportunity to witness the enduring legacy of the Silk Roads. Contact: Jinfang Lilijinfang@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE China National Silk Museum
Int'l Business Times
3 days ago
- Business
- Int'l Business Times
Americans Lose Out on Over a Billion Dollars Thanks to Trump's Pardons: House Democrats Report
A report by Democrats on the House Judiciary Committee found that President Donald Trump's executive pardons have come with a price tag estimated to be over $1.3 billion. In just the first five months of his second term, Trump has issued nearly 1,600 pardons, including a blanket pardon for most January 6 defendants and clemency for a number of wealthy or politically connected individuals. The report, reviewed by Axios, accuses Trump of abusing the clemency power to reward allies and loyalists at the expense of victims and taxpayers who will no longer benefit from fines, forfeitures and restitution. The biggest financial hit came from Trump's pardon of Trevor Milton, the founder of now-defunct electric truck company Nikola, erasing nearly $680 million in court-ordered restitution. Other notable clemency recipients include Ross Ulbricht, the convicted founder of the Silk Road marketplace, who was spared $184 million in forfeitures, and Jason Galanis, a fraudster whose $84 million restitution order was also wiped out. The costliest category in the report was restitution, which totaled more than $1 billion. In addition, Trump's pardons erased $183 million in forfeitures and $132 million in fines. Democrats warned that Trump's actions are undermining the Crime Victims Fund, a federal resource for supporting crime victims, which is funded in part by restitution payments. "Whoever said crime doesn't pay clearly never lived under a Trump presidency," the report states. Trump has even floated the idea of compensating January 6 defendants, some of whom have pending lawsuits against the Department of Justice seeking damages. The White House dismissed the findings. Spokesperson Harrison Fields mocked the report, calling it the product of "summer interns" and accusing Democrats of hypocrisy over President Biden's pardon of his son, Hunter. "President Trump is righting the wrongs of political prosecutions," Fields said. Originally published on Latin Times
