Today's Xinjiang is experiencing the best period of development in its history, according to a white paper issued by the Information Office of the State Council Friday.

Solid steps have been taken to govern China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in accordance with the law, maintain stability through ethnic unity, strengthen cultural identity and bonds, bring greater prosperity to the region and its people, and develop Xinjiang from a long-term perspective, said the document.

"This has contributed to unprecedented economic and social development and significant improvement of people's wellbeing, and brought a greater sense of gain, happiness and security to the people," noted the white paper titled "CPC Guidelines for Governing Xinjiang in the New Era: Practice and Achievements."