Chinese President Xi Jinping made a historic three-day visit to Urumqi in Xinjiang while celebrating the 70th anniversary of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The visit focused on Xinjiang development and highlighted economic growth, ethnic unity, and strategic national initiatives. Xi met with representatives from all ethnic groups and examined projects demonstrating the region’s transformation over seven decades.
During his stay, Xi toured exhibitions showing Xinjiang’s progress since its establishment in 1955. He observed the shift from simple, mud-plastered homes to modern two-story houses, reflecting relocation and modernization programs. Xi emphasized that Xinjiang development results from national support and the efforts of local communities.
The region’s economic achievements are notable. By 2024, Xinjiang’s GDP surpassed 2 trillion yuan, a 204-fold increase since 1955. Infrastructure improvements include expressways connecting all prefectures and most counties, and railway lengths nearly doubling those of 2012. Xi highlighted these developments as part of Xinjiang development and modernization that improve residents’ daily lives.
Per capita incomes have risen sharply with urban and rural incomes increasing 133-fold and 162-fold since 1978. Poverty reduction programs lifted over three million people out of poverty by 2020. Xi also praised environmental progress such as the 3,046-kilometer green belt around the Taklimakan Desert and a 56.6 percent expansion of oasis areas.
Xi met with prominent local figures including Burumahan Maoleduo, a Kirgiz border guardian, and Memetjan Wumer, a former Uygur village Party secretary. Both contributed decades to Xinjiang development and ethnic unity. Xi highlighted the importance of joint efforts from all ethnic groups in advancing the region.
Looking ahead, Xi called for high-quality development to ensure long-term stability. He emphasized Xinjiang’s strategic role in the Belt and Road Initiative, energy production, and agriculture. The region now produces 66.64 million tonnes of oil and gas, 192.7 million kW of electricity, and 5.69 million tonnes of cotton annually, dominating national output.
Xi stressed technological and industrial innovation as critical for future growth. Ongoing national investment, paired assistance programs, and enterprise participation remain key drivers of Xinjiang development. Officials plan to continue enhancing infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and cross-border trade.
Overall, Xi’s visit reinforced the importance of Xinjiang development in national policy. The trip highlighted both achievements and future goals, positioning Xinjiang as a hub for economic, technological, and strategic progress.
