Xi Jinping Marks 70 Years of Control in Uyghur Region

Xi Jinping has commemorated the 70th anniversary of what China refers to as the establishment of the Jianguyghur Autonomous Region, located in East Turkestan—a region where Uyghur Muslims face significant oppression.

This celebration can be seen as an expression of Chinese dominance, signaling the government’s takeover of Uyghur lands. Each year, China marks the date when the People’s Liberation Army crossed into the region in 1955, effectively enforcing a form of “semi-autonomy” under Chinese control.

However, the reality of autonomy feels questionable at best, especially given the reports of mass detentions in concentration camps, where Uyghurs are compelled to forsake their cultural and religious identities for the sake of aligning with Chinese Communist ideals. Reports have surfaced that during this year’s Ramadan, Uyghur Muslims were coerced into providing video proof of eating during the day, thus undermining the fasting traditions.

In 2021, the U.S. Department of State condemned the actions against Uyghurs, labeling them as “genocide.” It is widely believed that any Chinese businesses operating in the region rely on forced labor from Uyghur detainees unless otherwise stated.

China has developed extensive surveillance networks to monitor the population, and this technology is now being exported to other authoritarian regimes globally. Activists have even taken legal action against major tech companies like Huawei and Hikvision for their involvement in creating these oppressive systems.

This year marked Xi’s first in-person attendance at the anniversary, although the celebrations appeared similar to previous years. Chinese representatives deflect claims of genocide by asserting that they are enhancing the Uyghur standard of living through investments in infrastructure and job creation.

Upon arriving in the capital of Ulmki’s province, Xi was accompanied by key members of the Chinese Communist Party. National media emphasized that their presence at the event signified a commitment to fostering connections across all ethnic groups in the region.

Other sources within China highlighted the increase in tourism, which they attribute to improved transport systems, including railways and airlines.

State television featured celebrations filled with traditional dances and floral displays as Xi arrived. Reports indicated that he met with various ethnic representatives, all expressing a desire to unite in building a prosperous future for the region.

This occasion echoes a similar event that marked the 60th anniversary of China’s takeover of Tibet, which was accompanied by a subtle but present warning against any form of dissent or “separatism.”