Xinjiang's development path aligned with Hong Kong, Macao initiatives

The third session of the 13th CPPCC Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region committee convened in Urumqi, during which new opportunities for collaborative efforts between Xinjiang and regions like Hong Kong, Macao and the UAE were outlined. Advisors emphasized the importance of mutual visits, industry insights, and cultural engagement, signaling a push towards deeper cooperation and development opportunities.

"Xinjiang needs to further expand its openness, while Hong Kong also needs to deepen its interaction and exchanges with Xinjiang. We should not only pay attention to Xinjiang but also contribute to its better development," said Wang Xihua, chairman of the Xinjiang Association of Hong Kong.

Wang added that this meeting has provided Hong Kong with a cooperative opportunity and has brought him, as an advisor of the political consultative conference, more responsibilities and challenges.

"I am very excited to participate in this meeting as a political advisor," said Ng Wah Wai, vice-president of the Xinjiang Overseas Friendship Association and executive chairman of the Industry and Commerce Association of Macao.

Last year, Wai led some 40 entrepreneurs and compatriots from Macao on a visit to Urumqi and Kashgar, during which they gained deeper insight into Xinjiang's economic development and industry prospects.

Wai emphasized the importance of inviting entrepreneurs from Xinjiang to visit and exchange experiences in Macao and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. By engaging in mutual visits and on-site inspections, both parties can forge closer and longer-lasting cooperative relationships, driving the collaborative development of the two regions.

Ablat Mamat, chief of the fellow association of the UAE-China Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the rapid development of Chinese education in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with 171 schools now offering Chinese language courses. He also noted the growing interest of the younger generation in Chinese culture.

Mamat also said he envisions increased opportunities for economic, trade and cultural exchanges between the UAE and Xinjiang.

Furthermore, he emphasized that Xinjiang's unique winter skiing resources and natural beauty will attract more international tourists.