The region is a “hub” to be developed into a “harmonious, prosperous and culturally developed region”, according to Xi Jinping. This will be done through the construction of railways, ports and power stations, the president promises.
The Chinese authorities have carried out major crackdowns on Uighurs and Kazakhs in the region, and many are being held in prison-like detention centers in “retraining camps.”
According to information, one million Uighurs and people belonging to other Muslim minorities may have been detained, forced sterilization may occur and people may be forced into forced labor. China has defended itself by saying that measures are necessary to combat extremism.