Ancient and medieval overland route of about 6,400 km/4,000 mi by which silk was brought from China to Europe in return for trade goods; it ran west via the Gobi Desert, Samarkand, and Antioch to Mediterranean ports in Greece, Italy, the Middle East, and Egypt.
Buddhism came to China via this route, which was superseded from the 16th century by sea trade.
White represents a desire for peace and liberty. Green symbolizes freedom and agricultural wealth. Red stands for the courage of spilt blood of the freedom fighters. Effective date: 22 November 1990.