🎉 Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region marked its 70th anniversary with a grand celebration in Urumqi. President Xi Jinping joined local officials and people from all ethnic groups to highlight the region’s journey of unity and progress.
From Poverty to Prosperity 🏔️➡️💰
Once one of the poorest corners of China, Xinjiang has transformed dramatically. By the end of 2020, over 3.06 million rural residents had been lifted out of destitution. Fast forward to 2024, and the regional GDP surpassed 2 trillion yuan—203 times its size in 1955!
A Growing Community 🌐👥
The population has grown from 4.78 million in 1953 to 25.85 million in 2020, including ethnic minority communities rising from 4.45 million to 14.93 million. This diverse mosaic fuels Xinjiang’s vibrant culture and social harmony.
Agri & Energy Powerhouse 🌾⚡
Xinjiang now leads China in agricultural yields: a record 7,872.75 kg of grain per hectare and almost 5.69 million tonnes of cotton (over 92% of the national total) in 2024. On the energy front, total installed electricity capacity reached 192.7 million kW, with new energy sources contributing over 100 million kW.
Silk Road Economic Belt 🚂🌍
Bordering eight countries, Xinjiang is a crucial hub on the Silk Road Economic Belt. In 2024 alone, 16,400 China–Europe freight trains passed through, marking the fifth straight year above 10,000. Trade and cultural exchanges are booming!
Looking ahead, Xinjiang is set to build on these strengths—fostering unity, promoting cultural progress, and protecting its beautiful environment. The road to modernization is well underway, and the world is watching with excitement! ✨
Reference(s):
70 years on, how Xinjiang achieves all-round progress in development
cgtn.com
