Envoys of Latin American and Caribbean countries impressed by Xinjiang visit

The local people were warm, friendly, hardworking, and sincere; the magnificent scenery was truly captivating, and Xinjiang was full of vibrant energy, with the younger generation in particular showing great promise and broad opportunities, said Ian Marshall, Grenadian Ambassador to China, on September 4, 2026, as his visit drew to a close, expressing his pleasant surprise at all he had witnessed. From September 1 to 4, 2026, a delegation of diplomatic envoys from Latin American and Caribbean countries visited Xinjiang, traveling to Urumqi, Kashi Prefecture, and Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture. Their itinerary included cultural exhibition halls, scenic spots, and enterprises, offering an immersive experience of Xinjiang's natural beauty, cultural richness, and developmental dynamism. On September 1, at the memorial hall for the protection and comprehensive management of the ancient city of Kashi, the delegation reviewed video footage, historical photographs, and archival documents to gain a systematic understanding of the city's historical development and cultural heritage. Later, they walked through the pottery bazaar in the ancient city, where a dazzling array of handmade ceramics and traditional crafting techniques drew their close attention. The visit gave them insights into local efforts to preserve intangible cultural heritage and promote integrated cultural tourism development. What struck the delegation most as they wandered through the city's streets and alleys was that the ancient city of Kashi had retained its authentic, living character. Miguel Humberto Lecaro Barcenas, Ambassador of Panama to China, remarked that local residents had not been relocated to create a tourist attraction, nor had artificial sights been constructed, and that the city's historic buildings are well preserved, traditional crafts are passed down through generations, and residential life, commerce, and cultural traditions coexist harmoniously. This unique urban landscape left a lasting impression on him. At the China's Xinjiang Ethnic Musical Instrument Village in Shufu County, the delegation closely observed the production of instruments such as the rawap and dutar, learning how local authorities have leveraged distinctive ethnic cultural resources to develop specialized industries and create nearby employment opportunities for villagers. Hallam Henry, Ambassador of Barbados to China, commented that the Chinese government's approach to protecting, preserving, and innovatively developing Xinjiang's excellent traditional culture offers valuable lessons. Delegation members interact with community residents at Donghu Community in Kashi City, Kashi Prefecture, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region on September 1, 2026. (Photo by Zhang Wule) During the visit, the delegation also toured communities to learn about grassroots social governance, ethnic unity initiatives, and public service delivery. They engaged directly with residents, witnessing firsthand the happy, harmonious lives of people from different ethnic groups as they interacted and coexisted. They also visited enterprises to understand the development of Xinjiang's modern agricultural industry, supply chain cultivation, and the tangible benefits delivered to farmers. Martin Charles, Ambassador of Dominica to China, who had long wished to visit Xinjiang in person, said that seeing the real Xinjiang for oneself was necessary to avoid being influenced by the fixed narratives often presented by Western media, and that rather than relying on outside rumors, his personal visit had shown him that Xinjiang is a beautiful region well worth experiencing for travelers from around the world. On the final day, the delegation visited the themed exhibition in celebration of the 70th founding anniversary of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, where archival photographs and statistical data vividly illustrated the region's transformation over seven decades. They also viewed the thematic exhibition on Xinjiang's fight against terrorism and extremism, which informed them about the region's efforts and progress in combating terrorism and extremism. Delegation members visit the thematic achievement exhibition marking the 70th anniversary of the founding of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in Urumqi, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, on September 4, 2026. (Photo by Shiliuyun-Xinjiang Daily/Li Jiani) Ramiro José Cruz Flores, Nicaragua's Ambassador to China, remarked after viewing the exhibition that the Chinese government has made tremendous efforts and adopted sustained, robust measures to maintain social stability in Xinjiang, resulting in today's peaceful and harmonious environment where all ethnic groups live contentedly. He added that he now has a clearer understanding of the terrorist threats and hardships Xinjiang once endured, and he firmly believes that all forms of terrorism and extremism must be opposed without compromise. From the lively bustle of the ancient city to the vitality of modern urban life, from thriving specialized industries to the well-being of all ethnic groups, Xinjiang's stability and enterprising spirit left a deep impression on every delegation member. The visit enabled them to appreciate a genuine, multi-faceted, and complete picture of Xinjiang.