Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region celebrated its 70th anniversary with a grand gathering in Urumqi, attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping and representatives from all ethnic groups. The event highlighted unprecedented development achievements since the region's establishment in 1955.
Economic Leap Forward
Xinjiang's GDP reached 2 trillion yuan ($281.4 billion) in 2024 – a 203-fold increase from 1955 – with annual growth averaging 8%. The region has transitioned from poverty to prosperity, lifting 3.06 million rural residents out of destitution by 2020, according to official data.
Demographic and Social Progress
Population figures reveal sustained growth across communities, expanding from 4.78 million in 1953 to 25.85 million in 2020. Ethnic minority populations grew from 4.45 million to 14.93 million during this period, reflecting inclusive development policies.
New Frontiers of Development
President Xi emphasized leveraging Xinjiang's strategic position and resources to build a modern socialist region. Key achievements include:
National leadership in agricultural output (7,872.75 kg/hectare grain yield)
92.3% share of China's total cotton production
192.7 million kW installed power capacity, with new energy surpassing 100 million kW
Gateway to Eurasia
As a crucial Silk Road hub, Xinjiang handled 16,400 China-Europe freight trains in 2024. The region continues transforming from remote inland area to open economic frontier, aligning with national strategies for high-quality development.
