Adventure calling: Why a British influencer sees Xinjiang as China's next AI frontier

Editor's note: The views expressed in this video are those of the guest alone and do not necessarily represent those of CGTN.

For the past five years, British vlogger Luke Johnston has called Xinjiang home – a vast, vibrant region in northwest China known for its stunning cultural diversity and abundant natural resources. Beyond its landscapes and traditions, Xinjiang is now gaining attention for something else: its potential as a rising hub for artificial intelligence.

What makes this region so promising for AI? The answer lies in its unique advantages. Xinjiang is rich in the energy resources critical for powering data-intensive industries, including wind, solar and oil. This strong energy foundation is already attracting tech investment. For example, the Xinjiang Software Park has welcomed 133 enterprises so far this year, with digital and intelligent companies making up more than half, a clear sign of growing momentum in the local digital economy.

With a PhD and a curious mind, Johnston has witnessed this transformation firsthand. He believes Xinjiang is becoming a place where tradition meets innovation, and that cities like Karamay could play a key role in shaping the future of AI. How exactly do energy and innovation intersect here? What is his year-end summary for this year, and what are his outlooks for the future?