A 32-member delegation from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), including representatives from several member countries and officials from the OIC General Secretariat, recently concluded a four-day visit to China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Invited by China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the delegation toured the region from October 16 to 19, exploring cities such as Turpan, Hami, and the regional capital, Urumqi.
Throughout their visit, the delegates expressed admiration for Xinjiang’s social stability, harmonious ethnic relations, and collaborative development among its diverse communities. The delegation emphasized the potential for cooperation in areas such as counter-terrorism, development initiatives, and combating misinformation, highlighting the importance of international unity in the fight against terrorism.
After visiting an exhibition on counter-terrorism and de-radicalization efforts in Xinjiang, Boubacar Gouro Diall, Mali’s representative to the OIC, underscored the global significance of uniting against terrorism. “Countries must come together to confront this threat,” Diall stated, warning that some nations may covertly instigate terrorism to destabilize others and seize their resources. He also noted that China is not the only nation facing misinformation, calling for greater international cooperation to combat false narratives.
Coulibaly Drissa, Cote d’Ivoire’s representative to the OIC, highlighted the critical role of social stability in achieving sustained development. “Social stability is very important everywhere in the world. Only with social stability can we promote global peace,” he remarked.
The delegation visited local mosques and Islamic institutes, where they observed the preservation of religious freedom and cultural heritage. Akram Karimi, Tajikistan’s OIC representative, praised the Chinese government’s commitment to protecting human rights and ensuring religious freedom. “Xinjiang’s ethnic minority traditions and cultural heritage are being well-preserved,” Karimi commented.
Exploring local e-commerce enterprises and solar energy facilities, many representatives expressed keen interest in expanding economic cooperation with Xinjiang. Cameroonian diplomat Dewa Moustafa emphasized the potential for collaboration in the energy sector, noting Cameroon’s rich but underutilized solar resources. “The northern region of Cameroon has abundant solar energy resources, but they are not being fully utilized, leading to a power shortage. I hope my country can collaborate with Xinjiang’s local government in the energy sector,” Moustafa said.
Saudi Arabia’s deputy OIC representative, Hani Abdulwhab M. Kashif, lauded Xinjiang’s achievements, calling them a source of pride not only for China but also for its friends. He stressed the importance of increasing interaction to present a more accurate picture of Xinjiang to the world.
Many delegates, including Iran’s acting representative to the OIC, Naser Kamali Dolat Abadi, had visited Xinjiang multiple times and expressed admiration for the positive atmosphere among local residents striving for a better life. “Xinjiang is experiencing rapid development, with diverse ethnic groups preserving their unique cultures while enjoying a high quality of life,” Dolat Abadi observed.
The visit showcased Xinjiang’s ongoing efforts to promote social harmony, economic growth, and cultural preservation, leaving a lasting impression on the international delegates.
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Delegates from Islamic body hail Xinjiang's stability, development
cgtn.com
