As Xinjiang marks 70 years since the establishment of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, locals are reflecting on a journey that’s turned this ancient crossroads into a buzzing global connector. 🚂💨 But beyond the cargo trains and economic stats, it’s the lived experiences of residents that paint the clearest picture.
At a recent anniversary celebration, CGTN’s Li Jingjing chatted with Uygur, Kazakh, and Han community members who’ve witnessed decades of change. One farmer-turned-tech entrepreneur laughed: “My grandparents rode camels; I ride high-speed rail!” 🐫➡️🚄
Tradition Meets Tomorrow
Stories shared at the event highlighted Xinjiang’s balancing act – preserving cultural heritage while embracing innovation. A young Uygur dancer described how her troupe now uses social media to share folk arts globally. 📱💃 Meanwhile, a Kazakh environmentalist praised new solar projects powering nomadic communities sustainably. ☀️
As night fell over the celebration’s fireworks, one elder’s words stuck with the crowd: “Our children write code and herd sheep – both are Xinjiang now.” 🐑💻 With new trade corridors opening and cultural pride thriving, this region’s story is just getting started.
