As a Pakistani journalist, I had the privilege of visiting China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region for the second time. During my recent visit, I explored the vibrant cities of Urumqi and Kuqa. The region is rich in cultural heritage and history, and it is also pulsating with economic vitality and regional connectivity. Xinjiang is often misunderstood or misrepresented in global narratives, but my experiences revealed a distinct story of harmony, hospitality, prosperity, and promise.

Khawaja Hamza Iqbal at the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar in Urumqi, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

My visit to Xinjiang was marked by the warm and kind nature of its people, who demonstrated a strong sense of pride in their ethnic heritage and their role in China's national development. One of the trip's highlights was the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar in Urumqi, a fascinating blend of local customs and international influences. This thriving market is more than just a shopping destination; it symbolizes Xinjiang's historic position as a convergence point on the Silk Road. The stalls featured a diverse range of traditional Uygur crafts, Central Asian textiles, and South Asian spices, drawing in both local and international visitors who reveled in the multicultural atmosphere. The bazaar's atmosphere was vibrant, with Uygur folk music filling the air and vendors calling out their goods in Mandarin, Uygur, and English. A captivating Uygur dance performance left a lasting impression, showcasing Xinjiang's rich ethnic diversity and the remarkable preservation of cultural traditions.

During my visit to the Grand Mosque in Urumqi, I had a profoundly moving experience. People prayed freely and the mosque was well-maintained and full of life. Throughout my journey, I learned that China is home to thousands of mosques, and in Xinjiang, Muslims are free to practice their religion without interference. Conversations with local Muslims revealed their contentment with religious freedom. Western propaganda that paints a picture of repression in Xinjiang stands in stark contrast to the peaceful coexistence and open worship that I personally witnessed. As my visit coincided with the days leading up to Corban Festival, I saw markets full of people shopping for clothes, sweets and livestock. The festive mood was palpable. More importantly, people were not just celebrating; they were spending confidently, which is a clear indicator of rising prosperity.

Khawaja Hamza Iqbal had his photo taken with a wooden goat statue in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

Xinjiang has experienced notable economic growth. Modern infrastructure, such as clean roads, contemporary housing, and Urumqi's urban skyline, showcases the region's development. Locals expressed pride in their enhanced living standards, improved job prospects, and thriving businesses. Additionally, Xinjiang's focus on green energy is commendable. During my visit, I observed extensive wind farms with sleek turbines against the blue sky, exemplifying the region's commitment to environmental sustainability. In agricultural demonstration zones, I witnessed the implementation of modernized farming techniques and mechanized production. Xinjiang is effectively combining tradition with technology, as seen in its cotton fields and fruit orchards. The region's cotton industry has become highly productive and globally competitive, generating employment opportunities and uplifting local communities.

My journey also took me to Kuqa, a historic city that felt like a step back in time. By visiting ancient Buddhist caves, museums, and cultural relics, I gained insight into China's efforts to preserve the region's diverse heritage. History is not only protected but also celebrated in this region.

During my trip, I visited the Tianshan Grand Canyon and the surrounding mountains, which left me in awe. Xinjiang's breathtaking beauty, winding trails, and clear skies position it as a prime global tourism destination. I interacted with travelers from Europe, Central Asia, and across China, who were equally captivated by the region's natural wonders. Xinjiang's location is pivotal to China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), serving as a vital link between China, Central Asia, Europe, South Asia, and beyond. The China-Europe freight train service that passes through Xinjiang showcases this connectivity, facilitating the transportation of goods across continents and bolstering trade routes. As a Pakistani, I was heartened to see that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) originates from Xinjiang, connecting this vibrant region to Pakistan's Gwadar Port. This connection fosters deeper economic integration and paves the way for shared prosperity.

My time in Xinjiang revealed a region marked by vibrant culture, economic resilience, and warm hospitality. From Urumqi's modern skyline to Kuqa's historical treasures, from religious freedom to cutting-edge agriculture, Xinjiang embodies balanced development. For Pakistan and other South Asian countries, Xinjiang offers instructive insights into harmonizing tradition with progress and harnessing regional cooperation for shared prosperity. The story of Xinjiang is one of rebirth, resilience, and hope, serving as a beacon of connection between East and West, culture and commerce, and past and future.

Khawaja Hamza Iqbal is a journalist based in Islamabad, Pakistan, who offers in-depth analysis on security, political, and foreign affairs.

Producer: Xiao Chunfei

Supervisors: Ding Tao and Jie Wenjin

Planners: Jie Wenjin and Cheng Li

Reviewers: Cheng Li and Hou Weili

Editor: Gvlzar Mijit