Warden Message for Oct.1

This Warden Message is being issued to advise Americans of the potential for violent actions in Xinjiang Autonomous Region on or around October 1, 2005.  October marks the 50^th anniversary of the establishment of the Xinjiang Autonomous Region.  International press reports note that China has told police in Xinjiang to “prepare for danger” ahead of the 50^th anniversary.  There are no indications that American citizens are specifically targeted.  The Public Security Ministry said earlier this month that more than 260 terrorist acts have been committed in Xinjiang in the past two decades.
   
Americans considering travel to the region and those already there should review their plans carefully, remain vigilant with regard to their personal security, and exercise caution. Terrorists do not distinguish between official and civilian targets.  Americans in remote areas or border regions where military or police authority is limited or non-existent could also become targets.
 
Americans living or traveling in Xinjiang Autonomous Region are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy in Beijing through the State Department’s travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov.  Americans without Internet access may register directly with the U.S. Embassy by calling (86)(10) 6532-3431 x5344.  By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.

U.S. citizens planning to travel to China should consult the Department of State's country-specific Public Announcements, Travel Warnings, Consular Information Sheets, the Worldwide Caution Public Announcement and other information, available at http://travel.state.gov.  Up-to-date information on security conditions can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 in the U.S. and for callers outside the U.S. and Canada a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.