Guangming Daily:

General Secretary Xi Jinping highlighted that forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation should be the main task for the Party's ethnic work and all other initiatives in areas with large ethnic minority populations. As Xinjiang is an ethnic region, what are the considerations in this regard? Thank you.

Erkin Tuniyaz:

Thank you for your question. I will answer it. General Secretary Xi Jinping's important speeches on nurturing a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation have provided clear guidance for the Party's ethnic work and initiatives in regions with large ethnic minority populations in the new era. Recently, the regional Party committee convened a meeting focused on this central theme, clearly stating that all efforts in Xinjiang's reform, development, and stability must revolve around and serve this primary objective.

We have always been committed to improving people's livelihoods to promote high-quality development. We have not only focused on overall growth volume and speed, but also prioritized addressing the issues that concern the people most. After years of effort, the lives of people from various ethnic groups across the region have changed tremendously. They have genuinely felt the care of General Secretary Xi Jinping and the CPC Central Committee, as well as the warmth of the Chinese nation. As I mentioned earlier, several measures have been introduced to promote high-quality development. The most significant of these is ensuring that people of all ethnic groups share the benefits of development, leading to better lives and increased unity.

We have always aimed to enhance cultural identity by conducting cultural initiatives and promoting the vibrant integration of fine traditional Chinese culture into the work, study, and lives of people from various ethnic groups. Tourists from across China and abroad can easily witness the vibrant cultural tapestry of Xinjiang, with people from different ethnic groups performing the traditional Meshrep dance, singing Qin and Henan operas, and embodying a true sense of harmony. Moving forward, we will fully leverage historical facts, archaeological findings, and cultural relics to tell compelling Xinjiang stories that strengthen the sense of community for the Chinese nation. This will unite people of all ethnic groups and contribute to building a modern Chinese civilization.

We have always considered ethnic unity our lifeline, vigorously promoting interactions and integration among different ethnic groups. Many touching stories have emerged in Xinjiang, such as Pan Yulian, a teacher who has voluntarily cared for and tutored more than 2,000 Uyghur children over 32 years. Many of these children have gone to college and fulfill their dreams, affectionately calling Pan "Mother." Another inspiring example is Anipa Alimahong, known as the "Legendary Mother," who has adopted 10 orphans from four different ethnic groups. Her story has been adapted into the film "True Love," which I highly recommend for its incredible emotional impact. Additionally, there is the story of Abudujiapaer Mengde, affectionately known as "Uncle Party Badge." He selflessly helps tourists in need without expecting anything in return. Unable to speak standard Chinese, he shows his Party badge to refuse monetary gratitude, a gesture that has touched many hearts online. After helping a tourist, he lifted his shirt to reveal his Party badge and said, "I can't accept the money." We will continue to foster a strong atmosphere of coexistence, co-learning, co-working, and co-enjoyment among all ethnic groups, promoting unity as tightly as pomegranate seeds clinging together.

That's all from me. Thank you.