 Suyab was one of the Four Garrisons of Anxi Protectorate until 719, when it was handed over to Sulu Khagan of the Turgesh, appointed by the Chinese court as the "Loyal and Obedient Qaghan".After Sulu's murder in 738, the town was promptly retaken by Chinese forces, along with Talas.The fort was strategically important during the wars between China and Tibet.