In Urumqi's central square, colorful banners fluttered under the clear western sky on Thursday as the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region marked its 70th founding anniversary.
At 10:30 a.m., Chinese President Xi Jinping, who also serves as general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, took the stage to join local residents, entrepreneurs, artists and students at a grand gathering celebrating decades of transformation.
The live event, streamed nationwide by China Media Group and Xinhuanet, showcased Urumqi's skyline, cultural performances and innovative projects, highlighting how the region has evolved from remote frontier to a dynamic hub on the Chinese mainland's northwest gateway.
Over seven decades, sweeping infrastructure investments and a surge in digital initiatives have driven economic diversification, with local startups in logistics, renewable energy and cultural tourism drawing interest from global investors and tech enthusiasts alike.
For travelers and digital nomads, the region's dramatic deserts, snow-capped peaks and bustling bazaars offer immersive experiences that blend ancient Silk Road heritage with modern comforts, underscoring the call for sustainable and community-driven tourism.
As the festivities concluded, voices from across generations spoke of unity, opportunity and the shared journey ahead, reflecting a region poised at the intersection of history and innovation.
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President Xi in Xinjiang for autonomous region's founding anniversary
cgtn.com
