URUMQI, Jan. 17 (Xinhua) -- The number of China-Europe freight trains entering and leaving via Horgos Port in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region exceeded 4,722 in 2020, a record high despite the impact of COVID-19, according to customs authorities.

The import and export trade volume of Horgos Port was over 26 billion U.S. dollars, a year-on-year increase of 58.6 percent.

Local railway authorities expanded the capacity of the Horgos Port and optimized the operation of production in 2020. To meet the demand and ensure smooth international transport services, Horgos customs has also optimized the handling process, shortened the loading time, and streamlined customs clearance.

Horgos Port launched the China-Europe freight train service in 2016 and has since witnessed a steady rise in the number of trains passing through it. At present, 21 lines are running through the port.

The Belt and Road Initiative proposed in 2013 has provided Xinjiang with a significant opportunity to open up and boost economic cooperation between China and other countries thanks to its geographic advantages.