Xinjiang Takes Center Stage: Chinese Embassy Celebrates Culture, Friendship, and Prosperity in Doha.

English , International - بین الاقوامی , Snippets , / Saturday, February 3rd, 2024

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The ‘Xinjiang is a Nice Place’ folk music and dance show, organized by the Chinese embassy in Doha, took place at the Katara Opera House on Wednesday. This grand event was part of the embassy’s celebrations for the Spring Festival 2024 and a highlight during the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023.

Yu Jie, the deputy director-general of Xinjiang Department of Culture and Tourism, emphasized Xinjiang Autonomous Region’s year-round beauty, abundant scenery, and resources. He highlighted the diverse and unique culture of the people in Xinjiang, situated adjacent to eight Asian and European countries. Jie underscored Xinjiang’s commitment to fostering dialogue and mutual understanding among diverse populations, promoting peaceful coexistence.

During the performance, Jie noted that it showcased the rich cultural heritage, folklore, and traditions of Xinjiang. Prof Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim al-Sulaiti, the general manager of Katara – Cultural Village, expressed joy in hosting such an event. He saw it as an opportunity to showcase the deep-rooted Chinese culture, well-established civilization, and its renewed modern spirit.

Al-Sulaiti also expressed hope for continued efforts by the Chinese embassy in Qatar to organize diverse events reflecting the strong relations between the two friendly countries.

The newly appointed Chinese Ambassador to Qatar Cao Xiaolin arrived with great pleasure, ready to strengthen cooperation between China and Qatar. Presenting credentials to The Amir, they anticipated fostering friendship between the two nations. As the Chinese Lunar New Year approached, artists from Xinjiang were poised to showcase the region’s beauty in a celebration of diversity.

Expressing gratitude and extending a warm welcome, the ambassador acknowledged the significance of cultural exchange. They hoped that the artistic performances would not only highlight the beauty of Xinjiang but also deepen understanding and strengthen bonds between the two nations.

Xinjiang, lauded for its unique ethnic minority cultures, picturesque landscapes, and abundant resources, held a special place in Chinese history. The ambassador underlined Xinjiang’s role as a crucial hub along the ancient Silk Road, witnessing the integration and collision of Eastern and Western civilizations. It was deemed a “Historical and Cultural Corridor,” contributing to the rich tapestry of Chinese civilization.

Emphasizing the stability and harmony in Xinjiang’s society, the ambassador recounted its history of combating terrorism. Under the influence of evolving international situations and the spread of terrorism worldwide, Xinjiang faced violent terrorist acts. The region responded by cracking down on terrorism, carrying out de-radicalization efforts, and ensuring the basic human rights of citizens were protected. Today, people of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang lived happily, freely, harmoniously, and peacefully.

Economically, Xinjiang had undergone a historic transformation since the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949. The concerted efforts of its diverse population had lifted the region from extreme poverty to moderate prosperity. Agriculture, animal husbandry, and industries had modernized, contributing to Xinjiang’s integration into the Belt and Road initiative.

Highlighting the increasing economic ties with Islamic countries, the ambassador revealed that Xinjiang’s foreign trade import and export had seen a substantial increase, with a 60% year-on-year growth in trade volume with Qatar in 2023. The Belt and Road initiative had opened Xinjiang to the outside world, leading to mutual development and closer economic relations.

Religious diversity in Xinjiang was another aspect emphasized by the ambassador. The region accommodated various religions, including Islam, Buddhism, Christianity, Catholicism, and Taoism. The ambassador affirmed the protection of citizens’ normal religious activities by law, pointing out the annual organization of Muslim citizens’ pilgrimages to Saudi Arabia by the Islamic Association of China.

Despite Xinjiang’s stable development, the ambassador addressed the existence of double standards from anti-China forces, drawing parallels with Western views on the Palestinian situation. Accusations of “forced labor,” “cultural genocide,” and “religious persecution” were dismissed as smears against Xinjiang. The ambassador invited friends to visit Xinjiang, challenging distorted reports and urging firsthand experiences to reveal a prosperous, stable, and harmonious region.

In conclusion, the ambassador extended warm wishes for the success of the artistic performance “Xinjiang is a nice place,” concluding with heartfelt wishes for a pleasant stay and a wonderful night to everyone. The comprehensive narrative covered Xinjiang’s cultural richness, economic progress, religious harmony, and countered misconceptions, providing a detailed perspective on the region.

Xinjiang Takes Center Stage: Chinese Embassy Celebrates Culture, Friendship, and Prosperity in Doha.