From silk to solar, international journalists see Xinjiang firsthand

A press delegation comprising 28 journalists from 19 countries has concluded a week-long reporting trip across northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, visiting cities including Hotan, Turpan and Urumqi to learn about local economic development, cultural heritage, ecological conservation and opening-up efforts.

The tour, themed "Into the Core Area of the Silk Road Economic Belt," began on June 18 and brought together foreign and Chinese media representatives for on-the-ground reporting across the region.

In Hotan Prefecture, the delegation visited a textile enterprise known for producing traditional Uygur silk fabrics. Journalists observed the production process and spoke with local workers.

A journalist with Hungary's Mandiner weekly said the visit offered a chance to see the craftsmanship behind traditional silk garments and how local communities are engaged in the manufacturing process. 

The delegation also visited a one-gigawatt integrated solar thermal and photovoltaic power project in Turpan, where reporters learned about renewable energy development in the region. In Urumqi, they attended the ninth China-Eurasia Expo, which opened on June 25 and drew participants from 49 countries, regions and international organizations, along with more than 3,000 companies and institutions.

Several journalists said the trip offered a closer look at Xinjiang's economic landscape and industrial development.

A journalist with Pakistan's The News International said the visit highlighted the range of economic activities taking place across the region and noted the presence of businesses operating in multiple sectors.

A deputy editor-in-chief and presenter with UAE-based China-Arab TV said firsthand visits allowed them to observe local conditions directly and compare them with impressions formed from reports and information obtained remotely.