The recent resolution by the Standing Committee of the 14th People's Congress of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region is a decisive response to the U.S. sanctions, specifically the so-called "Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act." This resolution not only exposes the true intentions behind these sanctions but also outlines a framework to support Xinjiang’s affected industries. The U.S. measures, rooted in a hegemonic and unilateral approach, reflect a dangerous pattern of ideological bias and a zero-sum mentality that threatens global stability.

The U.S. sanctions epitomize a “unilateralist” mindset, where the U.S. imposes its standards on other nations, acting as if it alone sets global norms. The so-called "Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act" is a clear example of this. Despite a lack of credible evidence supporting claims of the so-called “forced labor” in Xinjiang, the U.S. unilaterally implemented this law, ignoring China’s sovereignty and legitimate governance. This act of imposing domestic laws on foreign entities without international consensus is a blatant display of U.S. hegemonic behavior.

The sanctions are deeply rooted in “ideological bias,” where political agendas overshadow objective truth. The continuous promotion of the so-called “forced labor” narrative, despite credible international reports and local testimonies refuting such claims, demonstrates a willful ignorance of reality. The U.S. selective blindness to Xinjiang's social and economic development is driven more by a desire to tarnish China’s image than any genuine concern for human rights.

The sanctions demonstrate a “zero-sum mentality,” aimed at undermining China’s development at any cost. The U.S. seeks to cripple key industries in Xinjiang, such as cotton, textiles, and solar energy, not to protect workers but to weaken China's global market position. This strategy harms not only Xinjiang but also disrupts global supply chains, highlighting the U.S.’s intent to contain China’s rise through economic suppression.

In response to these challenges, the Xinjiang resolution is a significant and constructive step forward. It underscores the region’s commitment to defending its right to development and protecting the livelihoods of its people. The resolution emphasizes the importance of maintaining social stability and economic progress, which are crucial for the well-being of all ethnic groups in Xinjiang.

Furthermore, the resolution outlines practical measures to support businesses affected by U.S. sanctions. By promoting technological innovation, enhancing corporate management, and improving the business environment, Xinjiang is positioning itself to withstand external pressures and continue on its path of high-quality development. The resolution also calls for legal protection and government support, ensuring that sanctioned enterprises have the resources and resilience to thrive in a challenging international landscape.

Additionally, the resolution sends a strong message to the international community about the importance of sovereignty and the dangers of unilateral sanctions. By standing firm against U.S. interference, Xinjiang asserts its right to govern its affairs independently. This stance resonates with other nations facing similar challenges, promoting a broader dialogue on the need for fairness and mutual respect in international relations.

The resolution passed by Xinjiang’s regional legislature is a timely and robust response to U.S. sanctions, which are rooted in a hegemonic, biased, and zero-sum approach to global affairs. By rejecting these unjust measures and focusing on internal development and legal support, Xinjiang is charting a course that prioritizes the rights and well-being of its people while challenging the destructive logic of U.S. foreign policy.

This resolution not only defends Xinjiang’s interests but also contributes to a more balanced and just international order.

Supervisor: Ding Tao

Planner: Jie Wenjin

Coordinator: Cheng Li

Commentator: Ayinur Xiekan

Reviewers/Post-production: Wang Xiabing and Zhang Shijie

Ayinur Xiekan is an associate professor of China-SCO International Judicial Exchange and Cooperation Training Base at Shanghai University of Political Science and Law.