This week, the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region celebrated its 70th anniversary with a grand gathering in Urumqi, attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping. The event highlighted the region’s journey from poverty to a thriving modern hub, with Xi emphasizing unity, innovation, and sustainable growth. 🌏
Breaking Down the Numbers
Xinjiang’s GDP skyrocketed to 2 trillion yuan ($281.4 billion) in 2024—203 times higher than in 1955. The region also eradicated poverty by 2020, lifting 3.06 million rural residents out of hardship. 🚀 Cotton production now dominates 92.3% of China’s total output, while renewable energy capacity surpassed 100 million kW this year.
From Silk Road to Global Trade
With 16,400 China-Europe freight trains passing through in 2024, Xinjiang has become a key link in global trade. President Xi urged further development of the Silk Road Economic Belt core area, leveraging the region’s geographic and resource advantages. 🚂
Cultural Unity & Future Goals
Xi stressed the importance of ethnic unity and ecological preservation, calling Xinjiang a model of 'harmonious coexistence.' The population has grown to 25.85 million, with ethnic minority groups now making up 57.7% of residents. 🌱
