Belarus launches new direct flight to China’s Urumqi

The launch of a direct flight between Minsk and Urumqi will give a new impetus to Belarus-China cooperation, Director of the Aviation Department of the Belarusian Transport and Communications Ministry Igor Golub said during the presentation of a new regular flight of Belavia airline, BelTA has learned.

Igor Golub pointed out that the countries have built an effective partnership which is gaining momentum in many areas.

"The launch of a direct flight between Minsk and Urumqi will give a new impetus to cooperation between our countries in air transportation. It will contribute to the further development of economic, social and cultural ties between Belarus and China," he said.

Igor Golub emphasized that China is a friendly country for Belarus and plays a crucial role in the world politics. Since the establishment of the diplomatic relations 30 years ago, the countries have built a comprehensive strategic partnership, which has become exemplary, thanks to the efforts of the peoples. It can be a model for other states. The warm relations between the leaders of the countries serve as a reliable basis for friendship. China and Belarus share the same views on the most important international issues. The countries have a common approach to a fair world order based on the international law.

"Closer ties in aviation contribute to bilateral cooperation, friendship and mutual understanding between our countries," Igor Golub said. He added that the countries are also working on other air routes.

Belavia will perform the first regular flight on the route Minsk - Urumqi - Minsk on 16 December. The flight will operate once a week, departing from Minsk and Urumqi on Mondays. Departure from Minsk is at 11.10, arrival in Urumqi - at 22.10, flight time is 6 hours.

The flight from Urumqi is scheduled to depart at 23.20 and arrive in Minsk at 1.00 (the next day). The flight time is 6 hours and 40 minutes.

All departure and landing times correspond to country's local time.

The cost of a one-way flight starts from €222, round trip - from €341. Tickets can be purchased on the airline's website, at ticket sales offices and agents.

Urumqi is the commercial, economic and cultural center of northwestern China. It is the capital of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Urumqi is located at the crossroads of important transport routes, including the modern route of the Belt and Road Initiative. The city is a key transportation hub between China, Central Asia, Russia and Europe.

Urumqi is a metropolis, surrounded by picturesque mountains and deserts. Nearby the city lies Heavenly Lake, the germ of the Mountains of Heaven and a popular tourist location. Due to its geographical location, the region is known for its rich cultural heritage.

Citizens of Belarus do not need a visa to visit China for stays up to 30 days, not more than 90 days a year. Detailed information is available on the website of the Chinese Embassy in Minsk.

Urumqi Diwopu International Airport handles about 15 million passengers annually. It is located only 16 km from the business center of the city. Taxi or bus services are available at the airport to get to the city.

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