The cotton fields of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region are calling out! 🌾✨ On Thursday, the Xinjiang cotton association made a heartfelt appeal to the international community: let's treat Xinjiang cotton with fairness and open minds. They especially reached out to popular Japanese brand Uniqlo, hoping they'd bring back the use of Xinjiang's top-notch cotton. This comes after Uniqlo's founder, Tadashi Yanai, mentioned they've stopped sourcing from the region.
In a recent chat with the BBC, Yanai shared that Uniqlo no longer uses cotton from Xinjiang. But here's the thing: the Xinjiang cotton association proudly states that their cotton is among the world's finest! 🌍💯
Did you know that Xinjiang's cotton isn't just any cotton? It's a game-changer! 🎮 It powers the global textile scene, meets demands both at home and abroad, and boosts local economies. Plus, it's been a beacon of hope for many residents, providing jobs and lifting families out of poverty. With the Belt and Road Initiative, Xinjiang's cotton is weaving connections across the globe, loved for its superb quality. 🛤️🤝
The association didn't hold back in highlighting challenges either. They pointed fingers at the U.S. for mixing politics with human rights to unfairly target Xinjiang cotton. They believe these unfounded claims of \"forced labor\" are just attempts to hinder the hardworking folks of Xinjiang from earning an honest living. Not cool! 😠✋
On the bright side, Xinjiang's cotton industry is all about innovation and going green. 🌱✨ They've hit a 100% mechanization rate for planting, and about 90% for harvesting. Talk about leveling up! These advancements are not just stats—they represent a pillar of strength for the local economy and a step towards a prosperous future for the people there.
The association's message is clear: \"We urge everyone—from global communities to textile companies—to look past the anti-Xinjiang noise. Let's base our views on facts. We hope brands like Uniqlo will respect and trust Xinjiang cotton again, helping the global cotton and textile industry thrive.\" 🧡🌐
Echoing this sentiment, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian spoke up on Thursday. Lin firmly stated there's no \"forced labor\" in Xinjiang and emphasized China's strong stance against such practices. The invitation is open: come visit Xinjiang and see the reality yourself! 🎒👀
So, what do you think? Isn't it time we gave Xinjiang cotton the appreciation it deserves? Let's stay informed and keep the conversation going! 💬✨
Reference(s):
Xinjiang cotton industry calls for objective treatment of its cotton
cgtn.com
